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Alternative, Complementary and Integrative Health articles written by some of the most beloved, respected, outrageous and progressive healers and thinkers in the global healthcare field today! Hundreds of topics are covered, including articles on health maladies, disorders and therapies. Some of the topics covered include Aromatherapy, Herbal Medicine, Acupuncture, Exercise, Nutrition and Lifestyle Changes, Energy Medicine, Crystals and Homeopathy. You may access other health topics, all organized alphabetically.

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Whether you are in the health care profession or taking care of a loved one or friend, being a caregiver is a gift. It is a great opportunity to put someone else's needs before yours. We all need help at one time or another in our lives. We may also need to help
others when the situation calls for our assistance.

Caregiver burnout is a common problem. It is difficult to be around someone who is in pain or has a debilitating situation often because we love them so and find it difficult to see them like this. Also, when someone is ill, in pain or not well, their is a certain energy
about them that is not the norm.

Because of this energy deficit or imbalance, it can be a real challenge to be around them for periods of time.

The National Alliance for Caregivers make these suggestions:

1. Find someone you can talk to and discuss your feelings. All feelings are legitimate, even those that upset you (anger sadness,guilt).
2. Set realistic goals. Balancing work, family, and time for yourself is difficult. Determine your priorities, and turn to other people for help with some tasks.
3.Make time for yourself, even if it's just an hour or two. Go to a movie, have lunch with a friend, or just sit and read a book.

Preventing Burnout

Caring for another person, especially over a long period of time, can be physically and emotionally draining. You may find yourself feeling listless, forced to do routine tasks, and wishing to be someplace
else. If this sounds familiar, you are a candidate for caregiver burnout.

1. Joining a caregiver support group: Check the newspaper or local library to locate one in your area. Sharing experiences with others can help you manage stress, locate resources, and reduce feelings of
isolation.

2. Talking to a professional: The clergy, social workers, psychologists, and nurses are often trained to provide counseling on caregiving issues. Help may also be available through your employee assistance program.

3. Taking advantage of respite care: Respite care is a service that provides temporary care for an older person. Respite care may mean help with a specific task or having health care providers care for your relative at home or in a extended care facility while you go on vacation.

4. Recognize signs of stress: Stress can take its toll on you in many ways. Be aware of changes in your thinking, in your physical health and in your behavior.

The single most important point you can make about stress is that in most cases it's not what's out there that's the problem, it's how you react to it. How you react is determined by how you perceive a
particular stress.

White Light Protection Exercise

Attracting and retaining people's energies as a caregiver is a very common occurrence. In a metaphysical sense, the best way to protect yourself from negative energy is with White Light.

Sit, or lay on the floor and close your eyes. Imagine White Light warming and engulfing first, your Crown Chakra and bathing your eyes in light. Let the White Light warm your mind and relax and release all thoughts.......

Move the White Light down the Chakra centers and let it bath each one and allow the White Light to massage each Chakra Point. Finish at the Root Chakra.

Then allow the White Light to engulf your entire being. This protects your aura from negative energies and allows your "psychic defense" to come into play.

This can be done at any time, in any place. Just close your eyes and visualize this White Light Protector.

Color Therapy is very helpful: http://www.peacefulmind.com/color_therapy.htm

As well as Meditation (the visualizations with candles would be especially good): http://www.peacefulmind.com/meditation.htm
Quartz Crystal held during the White Light Protector really enhances the strength of the Aura.
Remember: Energy follows Thought.
Cleanse with the positive thought or affirmation and Energy follows it.

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when tendons or ligaments in the wrist become enlarged, often from inflammation, after being aggravated. The narrowed tunnel of bones and ligaments in the wrist pinches the nerves that reach the fingers and the muscles at the base of the thumb. The first symptoms usually appear at night. Symptoms range
from a burning, tingling numbness in the fingers, especially the thumb and the index and middle fingers, to difficulty gripping or making a fist, to dropping things.

Some cases of carpal tunnel syndrome are due to work-related acumulative trauma of the wrist. Diseases or conditions that predispose to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome include pregnancy, diabetes, and obesity.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is often the result of a combination of factors that increase pressure on the median nerve and tendons in the carpal tunnel, rather than a problem with the nerve itself. Most likely the disorder is due to a congenital predisposition - the carpal tunnel is simply smaller in some people than in others. Other
contributing factors include trauma or injury to the wrist that cause swelling, such as sprain or fracture; overactivity of the pituitary gland; hypothyroidism; rheumatoid arthritis; mechanical problems in the wrist joint; work stress; repeated use of vibrating hand tools;
fluid retention during pregnancy or menopause; or the development of a cyst or tumor in the canal. In some cases no cause can be identified.

There is some clinical data to prove that repetitive and forceful movements of the hand and wrist during work or leisure activities can cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Repeated motions performed in the course of normal work or other daily activities can result in repetitive motion disorders such as bursitis and tendonitis. Writer's
cramp - a condition in which a lack of fine motor skill coordination and ache and pressure in the fingers, wrist, or forearm is brought on by repetitive activity - is not a symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Diagnosis

Early diagnosis and treatment are important to avoid permanent damage to the median nerve. A physical examination of the hands, arms, shoulders, and neck can help determine if the patient's complaints are related to daily activities or to an underlying disorder, and can
rule out other painful conditions that mimic carpal tunnel syndrome.

The wrist is examined for tenderness, swelling, warmth, and discoloration. Each finger should be tested for sensation, and the muscles at the base of the hand should be examined for strength and signs of atrophy. Routine laboratory tests and X-rays can reveal diabetes, arthritis, and fractures.

Physicians can use specific tests to try to produce the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. In the Tinel test, the doctor taps on or presses on the median nerve in the patient's wrist. The test is positive when tingling in the fingers or a resultant shock-like sensation occurs. The Phalen, or wrist-flexion, test involves having the patient hold his or her forearms upright by pointing the fingers
down and pressing the backs of the hands together. The presence of carpal tunnel syndrome is suggested if one or more symptoms, such as tingling or increasing numbness, is felt in the fingers within 1 minute. Doctors may also ask patients to try to make a movement that brings on symptoms.

Often it is necessary to confirm the diagnosis by use of
electrodiagnostic tests. In a nerve conduction study, electrodes are placed on the hand and wrist. Small electric shocks are applied and the speed with which nerves transmit impulses is measured. In electromyography, a fine needle is inserted into a muscle; electrical
activity viewed on a screen can determine the severity of damage to the median nerve. Ultrasound imaging can show impaired movement of the median nerve. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can show the anatomy of the wrist but to date has not been especially useful in
diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome.

Before surgery, you may want to consider other less invasive measures:

Complete recovery can occur and we can avoid reinjury by changing the way we do repetitive movements, the frequency with which we do the movements, and the amount of time we rest between periods when they perform the movements.

Exercise - Stretching and strengthening exercises can be helpful in people whose symptoms have abated. These exercises may be supervised by a physical therapist, who is trained to use exercises to treat physical impairments, or an occupational therapist, who is trained in evaluating people with physical impairments and helping them build
skills to improve their health and well-being.

Many activities outside of work may contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome: knitting, sewing, or needlepoint; cooking and housework; TV computer games and home computer work; playing sports or cards; and hobbies or projects like carpentry or using power tools for extended periods of time. You should also take frequent breaks and examine the tools you use at home that could be causing strain on your hands. You may need to wear a wrist splint at night, while playing sports, or when working at home. The wrist splint assists in maintaining the wrist in a neutral or straight position and allows the wrist to rest.

Consider these exercises:

1. Place the right palm at the wall, spreading your fingers equally. Extend your elbow and press the palm fully into the wall. Wait a few breaths and then turn your head to the left, bringing the tip of the right shoulder blade in towards the front of your body. Hold and
breathe.

2. Bring your palms together in front of your chest in a prayer position stretching all the fingers fully. Relax your shoulders. Slowly stretch the heel of your palms down until they are the level of your wrists. If you can do this stretch without discomfort you can increase the stretch by moving the hands over to the right and
holding for a few breaths. Repeat to the left. Stretch slowly and carefully, observing the sensations of your forearm and wrist.

3. Make fists of your hands and place them, thumb up, on the desk top . Support your lower arm on the desk. Slowly stretch the fist to the right, without moving your lower arm, and then to the left. Lift your arms off the desk top and make slow circles with your wrist, keeping your hands in closed fists. Circle both directions.
Release your fingers and place them, tips up, on the edge of your desk. Press into the desk with the fingers. Try this first with the fingers together and then spread apart.

4. Place the index finger on the edge of your desk, keeping your wrists straight. Gently push into the desk and hold for a few breaths. Repeat with all the fingers except the thumb.

5. Place your right palm on the desk top with your wrist straight. Relax all your fingers. With your left hand slowly stretch the right thumb away from the forefinger. Hold for a few breaths and then release and do the other hand.

6. Extend and stretch both wrists and fingers acutely as if they are in a hand-stand position. Hold for a count of 5. Straighten both wrists and relax fingers. Make a tight fist with both hands. Then bend both wrists down while keeping the fist. Hold for a count of 5. Straighten both wrists and relax fingers, for a count of 5. The
exercise should be repeated 10 times. Then we should let our arms hang loosely at their side and shake them for a couple of seconds.

Chiropractic - has shown to be effective for carpal tunnel syndrome.

Accupuncture - has shown great results for those with carpal tunnel in some people.

Carpal tunnel release is one of the most common surgical procedures in the United States. Generally recommended if symptoms last for 6 months, surgery involves severing the band of tissue around the wrist
to reduce pressure on the median nerve. Surgery is done under local anesthesia and does not require an overnight hospital stay. Many patients require surgery on both hands. The following are types of carpal tunnel release surgery:

Open release surgery: the traditional procedure used to correct carpal tunnel syndrome, consists of making an incision up to 2 inches in the wrist and then cutting the carpal ligament to enlarge the carpal tunnel. The procedure is generally done under local anesthesia
on an outpatient basis, unless there are unusual medical
considerations.

Endoscopic surgery: may allow faster functional recovery and less postoperative discomfort than traditional open release surgery. The surgeon makes two incisions (about ?" each) in the wrist and palm, inserts a camera attached to a tube, observes the tissue on a screen,
and cuts the carpal ligament (the tissue that holds joints together). This two-portal endoscopic surgery, generally performed under local anesthesia, is effective and minimizes scarring and scar tenderness, if any. One-portal endoscopic surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome is
also available.

Although symptoms may be relieved immediately after surgery, full recovery from carpal tunnel surgery can take months. Some patients may have infection, nerve damage, stiffness, and pain at the scar. Occasionally the wrist loses strength because the carpal ligament is cut. Patients should undergo physical therapy after surgery to
restore wrist strength. Some patients may need to adjust job duties or even change jobs after recovery from surgery.

Percutaneous balloon carpal tunnel-plasty: is an experimental technique that can ease carpal tunnel pain without cutting the carpal ligament. In this procedure, a ?-inch cut is made at the base of the palm. The doctor then inserts a balloon through a catheter under the
carpal ligament and inflates the balloon to stretch the ligament and free the nerve. Patients in one small study of pertucaneous balloon carpal tunnel-plasty reported relief of symptoms with no postoperative complications; most of them were back to work within two weeks. This experimental technique is not yet widely available.

Recurrence of carpal tunnel syndrome following treatment is rare. The majority of patients recover completely.

To reduce the inflammation associated with CTS, one or more of the following fatty acids and herbal extracts may be taken:

-Super GLA/DHA contains a balanced blend of essential fatty acids. Three softgels daily contain 450 mg of GLA from borage oil and 500 mg of DHA and 200 mg of EPA from marine lipid extract. Up to 6 softgels may be taken daily.

-Mega EPA contains 400 mg of EPA and 300 mg of DHA in each softgel capsule. Up to 8 softgels may be taken daily for therapeutic purposes.

-Boswella, one 300-mg capsule daily.

-Curcumin (from the spice turmeric), 900-1800 mg daily.

-Ginger extract, 1000 mg daily in capsule form.

-Inflacin topical cream.

The proper synergy of vitamins and minerals controls free-radical damage that increases pain and inflammation:

Celiac disease is an inflammatory disease of the upper small intestine caused by intolerance to the gluten affecting many genetically susceptible individual. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, and other similar proteins found in rye, barley and oats. These proteins damage the small finger-like projections (villi) that line the small intestine.When damaged and inflamed, the villi are unable to absorb water and nutrients such as vitamins, folic acid, iron and calcium. This causes the celiac to be susceptible to a variety of other conditions related to malabsorption, including lactose intolerance. Clinical and mucosal recovery after incorporating a gluten free diet is objective evidence that the problem is gluten induced.

Causes and Symptoms

The causes are presently presumed to be:

- Genetic susceptibility to the illness.
- A trigger, which could be one of:
- An environmental agent, probably a virus or other infection
- Stress
- Pregnancy

Possible exposure to gluten as a young baby before the gut barrier has developed fully. This association is currently under investigation.

The timing of the first exposure to gluten is also thought to be important. Babies who were introduced to wheat, barley, or rye at any time in the first three months had five times the risk of developing celiac over those exposed at 4 to 6 months. Those exposed later had a slightly increased risk relative to those exposed at 4-6 months. Celiac disease has many and varied symptoms, and adult symptoms are different from those of children. A range of symptoms and signs may be associated with untreated celiac disease. Diarrhea is one of the most common symptoms to affect people of all ages with celiac disease. Children may not gain weight or grow properly, while adults may find they lose weight. Malabsorption may also leave people tired and weak, because of anaemia caused by iron or folate deficiency.

Additionally, complications, including poor absorption, may occur if the patient continues to eat gluten-containing foods. When the intestinal lining is damaged, patients have difficulty absorbing nutrients.

It has not been determined what triggers this reaction in celiac patients. However, celiac disease is associated with autoimmune disorders, such as lupus. Autoimmune disorders occur when the patient's immune system mistakenly identifies body cells as harmful invaders, such as bacteria. As a result, the immune cells in celiac patients attack the patient's intestinal cells.

Researchers estimate that one out of 133 people in the United States have the disease. Prevalence is even higher, one out of 22 people, among patients who have immediate family members (parent or sibling) who have the disease. This suggests that the disease may be inherited (passed down through families) in some cases.

Individuals can develop the disease at any age, but it is most commonly diagnosed in patients who are eight to 12 months old or in patients ages 30-40.

Celiac disease can be managed with a gluten-free diet. In general, patients who strictly follow a gluten-free diet can expect to live normal, healthy lives. Symptoms will subside in several weeks and patients will be able to absorb food normally once they avoid eating gluten. A dietician or certified nutritionist may help a patient with celiac disease develop a healthy diet. Patients with celiac disease may also find gluten-free cookbooks to be a helpful resource. Many products, including rice flour and potato flour, can be used as substitutes for gluten.

Gluten-free diet: Patients should avoid all foods that contain gluten. This includes any type of wheat (including farina, graham flour, semolina, and durum), barley, rye, bulgur, Kamut, kasha, matzo meal, spelt, and triticale. Therefore, foods such as bread, cereal, crackers, pasta, cookies, cake, pie, gravy, and sauce should be avoided unless they are labeled as gluten-free.

Many less obvious foods contain gluten. For instance, grains that contain gluten are often used in food additives, such as modified food starch and malt flavoring. Also, some medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins may contain gluten as a binding agent. Lipstick and postage stamps may contain gluten.

Studies have shown that a gluten-free diet may improve iron deficiency (anemia), malnutrition, anxiety, and depression. Some reports exist of mood swings or depression after adopting a gluten free diet, purportedly due to issues relating to dietary adherence. However, the overwhelming body of scientific evidence concludes that a gluten-free diet will reduce these symptoms.

How to avoid gluten: Patients should carefully read the labels of their foods. To help patients identify foods like gluten, the U.S. Congress passed the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA). The law, which went into effect January 1, 2006, requires food manufacturers to clearly state on their packages whether the food is made with any ingredients that contain products derived from milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, or soybeans. This act also requires the FDA to develop and finalize rules for the use of the term "gluten-free" on product labels by August 2008.

Food products can become cross-contaminated with gluten if they come into contact with gluten. For instance, a knife that was used to cut bread should be washed thoroughly with soap and water before it is used to cut food for a patient with celiac disease. Cross contamination may also occur if bread and vegetables were cut on the same cutting board.

Hidden gluten can be found in some unlikely foods, such as cold cuts, soups, hard candies, soy sauce, and many low or non-fat products (such as licorice and jelly beans). Gluten may also come in forms such as vegetable proteins and starch, modified food starch (when derived from wheat instead of corn), maltodextrin, malt flavoring, and glucose syrup. Many common ingredients contain wheat or barley derivatives.

Patients with celiac disease should always ask about the ingredients in food when dining at a restaurant or someone else's home.

Patients should consult their healthcare providers and pharmacists before taking any drugs, herbs, or supplements because they may contain gluten. Read the labels of cosmetics because some beauty products, such as lipstick, may contain gluten. Use self-adhesive postage stamps because stamps that require moistening may be contaminated with gluten.

Foods that are safe to eat: Today, patients can choose from a wide variety of gluten-free products at grocery stores. There are gluten-free substitutes for many foods and beverages, including cookies and beer. If gluten-free foods are not readily available at the local supermarket, they can be purchased online.

Patients can eat fresh meats, fish, and poultry that are not breaded or marinated. Most dairy products are safe to eat, as well as fruits, vegetables, rice, potatoes, and gluten-free flours that are made from rice, soy, potato, or corn.

Although amaranth, buckwheat, and quinoa are gluten-free when they are grown, they may become contaminated with other grains during harvesting and/or processing. Even though oats may not be harmful for most patients with celiac disease, they are often contaminated with wheat. Therefore, oats should be avoided as a precautionary measure.

Cooking: Patients with celiac disease do not necessarily have to give up their favorite foods because they cannot eat gluten. Substitutes for wheat flour can be used for many recipes. For instance, if a recipe calls for one teaspoon of wheat flour, patients can use 1.5 teaspoon of potato starch, cornstarch, rice flour, or arrowroot starch instead. One cup of wheat flour may be substituted with one cup of fine cornmeal, 3/4 cup of coarse cornmeal, 3/4 cup of rice flour, or 5/8 cup of potato flour. Gluten-free cookbooks are widely available to help patients maintain their quality of life with respect to food.

NO foods that have little or no fiber such as ice cream, cheese, meat, snacks like chips and pizza, and processed foods such as instant mashed potatoes or already-prepared frozen dinners. Too much white flour and refined sugar.

Avoid alcohol and sugar, because they tend to worsen the situation. Too much sugar can rob our body of essential nutrients. Simple carbohydrates from baked goods, pastries, most crackers and cookies must be limited to a very small portion that are gluten free only or completely removed from the diet.

Curb your caffeine. One or two cups of coffee can work to kick you into gear in the morning, but its benefits usually end there. Too much caffeine is just as bad as too much of anything. Drinking it throughout the day for an energy boost can actually backfire.

Acidophilus: The normal, healthy colon contains "friendly" bacteria (85% lactobacillus and 15% coliform bacteria). It is the friendly bacterial flora found in yogurt and is essential to the digestive system. When these bacteria are not in balance, then the person may experience bloating, flatulence, constipation, and malabsorption of nutrients. Acidophilus taken as a dietary supplement may help to detoxify and to rebuild a balanced intestinal flora. It is used for the prevention of
Candida as well as for treatment. Acidophilus aids the digestion and helps to replace the "friendly" intestinal flora.

Alpha Lipoic Acid is a unique antioxidant that is both water and fat soluble, which allows it to enter all parts of the cell to neutralize free radicals. Alpha Lipoic Acid contributes to and is important for the production of energy inside the cell by utilizing sugar to produce energy contributing to mental and physical stamina, reducing muscle fatigue and neutralizes free radicals. Alpha Lipoic Acid recycles and enhances the effects of both Vitamin C and Vitamin E.

Calcium and Magnesium can be effective for pain associated with muscle spasms. Take 500 mgs of each, two-three times per day.

A diet that includes Flaxseed, flaxseed oil and fish oils contain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and decrease pain. Omega-3 fatty acids help lower cholesterol, may help reduce the risk of irregular heart rhythms and may also improve certain factors, like high blood pressure. 1000 mg, divided doses 2x/day.

Nutritional supplements such as the combination of Potassium Aspartate and Magnesium Aspartate has shown benefits for those people with poor assimilation in several studies. Usually 1 gram is taken twice per day. Results have been reported within one to two weeks.

A probiotic will fortify your intestinal flora, which are essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. This is key to good health and a strong immune system. Studies have shown that patients who begin a course of probiotics with fiber a few days prior to surgery are less likely to pick up a post-operative infection during their hospital stays. This demonstrates a strong connection between intestinal flora and immune function. The fiber, which provides the friendly bacteria both food and sanctuary, can be as simple as an apple or banana.

Vitamin B deficiency can cause a host of problems. Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is essential to all life and is a component of coenzyme A (CoA), a molecule that is necessary for numerous vital chemical reactions to occur in cells. Traditionally, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) has been used to treat celiac disease, but scientific studies have not been conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this treatment. Human scientific studies are needed before a firm conclusion can be made. Take a liquid blend of B's.

Vitamin K: Vitamin K is found in green leafy vegetables like spinach, broccoli, asparagus, watercress, cabbage, cauliflower, green peas, beans, olives, canola, soybeans, meat, cereals, and dairy products. Although vitamin K deficiency is rare, patients who have celiac disease have an increased risk of developing this condition. Therefore, vitamin K has been suggested as possible treatment for patients with celiac disease. However, there are currently no human studies available on the safety and efficacy of this treatment.

The Celtic Calendar is a compilation of pre-Christian Celtic
systems of timekeeping, including the Gaulish Coligny calendar, used by
Celtic countries to define the beginning and length of the day, the week, the
month, the seasons, quarter days, and festivals. The Gaulish Coligny calendar
is possibly the oldest Celtic solar/lunar ritual calendar. The year was
divided into a light half and a dark half. As the day was seen as beginning
after sunset, so the year was seen as beginning with the arrival of the
darkness, at Samhain. The arrival of the light half of the year started at
Beltane. This observance of festivals beginning the evening before the
festival day is still seen in the celebrations and folkloric practices among
the Gaels, the Irish and the Scots. In some Neo-pagan practices, these
holidays are observed for purposes of ritual. Wiccans, combine the Gaelic
fire festivals with solstices and equinox celebrations derived from non-
Celtic cultures to produce the modern, Wiccan Wheel of the Year. The four
seasonal Gaelic festivals are Samhain, Imbolc, Beltane and Lughnasadh.

SAMHAIN: (October 31st) Also know as All
Hollows Eve or Halloween or Feast of the Dead. The year was seen as beginning
with the arrival of the darkness, at Samhain, the traditional Celtic New
Year's Eve. This dark period of the year will eventually give birth to a new
sun and new life. It is the beginning of the gestation period for the coming
year and of the future. The term Halloween (and its alternative rendering
Hallowe'en) is shortened from All-hallow-even, as it is the eve of "All
Hallows' Day",[1] also which is now known as All
Saints' Day. It was a day of religious festivities in various northern
European Pagan traditions, [2] until Popes Gregory III and Gregory IV moved
the old Christian feast of All Saints' Day from May 13 to November 1. In the
ninth century, the Church measured the day as starting at sunset, in
accordance with the Florentine calendar. Although All Saints' Day is
now considered to occur one day after Halloween, the two holidays were, at
that time, celebrated on the same day. Liturgically, the Church traditionally
celebrated that day as the Vigil of All Saints, and, until 1970, a day of
fasting as well. Like other vigils, it was celebrated on the previous day if
it fell on a Sunday, although secular celebrations of the holiday remained on
the 31st. The Vigil was suppressed in 1955, but was later restored in the
post-Vatican II calendar.

YULE: (December 21st) Celebrating the rebirth of
the Sun. Also known as the Winter Solstice. The
winter solstice has long been celebrated as the birth of the sun, of light,
of life itself. It is a time for introspection, contemplation and planning
for the future. Yule means "Yoke of the Year", celebrated as the seed time of
the year, the longest night and birth time of the new Sun King OR Son of God.
On this darkest of nights, the Goddess becomes the Great Mother and once
again gives birth.

Traditions from this season include the lighting of the Yule log
with a piece of last year's log. When the flames begin to light up the room,
write wishes on paper and toss them in the fire. Remember to save some Yule
log in order to light next year's flame. Other traditions at this time
include kissing under the mistletoe, giving gifts to the less fortunate,
exchanging gifts with friends and family, and make merry with food and drink.
This is the time of the Full Cold
Moon. Discover more Yule traditions and
rituals. See alsoYule.

IMBOLC: (February 1st or 2nd) Also known as
St. Brigid's Day and in the Catholic holidays as Candlemas. Candlemas is a
Christian holiday celebrated annually on February 2. It celebrates three
occasions according to Christian belief: the presentation of the child Jesus,
Jesus first entry into the temple and celebration of the Virgin Mary's purification. Imbolic is a
Gaelic festival marking the beginning of Spring.
Most commonly it is held on 31 January – 2 February, or halfway between the
winter solstice and the spring equinox.

St. Brigid was born in A.D. 451 or 452 to
a pagan father (Dubthach) and Christian slave mother (Broicsech) just after
the time that St. Patrick was preaching. It is said a Bishop met the pregnant
slave mother and predicted that the child she was carrying would do great
things. It is said, too, that a Druid of Dubthach's household had predicted
that there would soon be born one who "shall be called from her great
virtues, the truly pious Brigid ". St. Brigid is the patroness of dairy
maids, infants, midwives, blacksmiths, poets, nuns, and students. Along with
St. Patrick, she is the patroness of Ireland. St. Brigid is depicted in art
as a nun with a
Cross woven from rushes, with a crozier, with fire (a candle,
lamp, or bowl of fire), and/or with a cow.

Traditions from this season include the celebration of the natural
cycle of the Universe which brings back longer daylight hours. An Irish
Gaelic word, Imbolc pronounced im-molk, literally means "in milk" or "in the
belly". It is a time for honoring creativity, fertility and receptive, feminine energy. Candles are often tools used to celebrate this
Celtic holiday. It is also a time we celebrate love!
Imbolc was traditionally a time of weather
divination and the old tradition of watching to see if badgers came from
their winter dens in what has become the North American Groundhog Day.
This is the time of the Full Snow
Moon. See alsoImbolc.

St. Patrick (March 17th) is a celebration
of St. Patrick's mission to the Irish. He was a Romano-British Christian
missionary and bishop in Ireland. Known as the "Apostle of Ireland", he is
the primary patron saint of the island along with Saint Brigid and Columba.
Legend credits St. Patrick with teaching the Irish about the doctrine of the
Holy Trinity by showing people the shamrock, a three-leafed plant, using it
to illustrate the Christian teaching of three persons in one God. For this
reason, shamrocks are a central symbol for St Patrick's
Day. The shamrock had been seen as sacred in the pre-Christian days in
Ireland. Due to its green color and overall shape,
many viewed it as representing rebirth and eternal life. Christians also
viewed the four-leaf clover as lucky for its
resemblance to the cross. Some even believe that the fourth leaf symbolizes
the Grace of God. The Irish often say that the green hills of the Emerald
Isle (Ireland) contain more four-leaf clovers than anywhere else. Hence, the
"luck o’ the Irish.". When the Christians adopted the Celtic holiday of Lugh, at the end of July and called it Lammas, the festival shifted slightly to align with the harvesting of potatoes. This is typically around the last Sunday of July (Garlic Sunday). By the early Middle Ages, the Christians essentially replaced the god Lugh, with the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick. Even now, on the last Sunday in July, a mass pilgrimage climb Croagh Patrick in County Mayo. This 2 mile walk up the rocky mount (many with bare and bleeding feet) is a testament to the power of this holiday.

OSTARA: (March 20th) This true first day of Spring is the Vernal Equinox. During the
equinox both day and night are 12 hours each, symbolically ushering in
balance. Ironically, this balance is a signal to prepare for the change of
seasons both around us and in us. Ostara is a celebration of this change.
This time of Spring has been celebrated over the centuries as the beginning
of the rebirth period. Spring is probably one of the most embraced and most
significant of the season changes, for it denotes the start of new life,
regeneration of nature and the renewal of the spirit.

It is the time of the Sun festival dedicated to the Norse
goddess, Eostre. Feasts were held in Eostre's honor among the pagan
Anglo-Saxons, eventually replaced by the Christian Paschal month (or
Easter). In her various forms, she is a "Spring-like fertility goddess"
associated with the rising dawn, and is connected to numerous traditions and
deities indigenous to Northern Europe.

Traditions from this season include planting seeds, tending
gardens, and working with herbs for all purposes. Flowers should be placed on
the altar and worn as well. Foods made of seeds, nuts, and leafy vegetables
are eaten. This is the time of the Full Worm Moon. See alsoOstara.

BELTANE: (May 1st) The May Day fire festival
celebrates the beginning of summer, the merging of the Goddess and the God,
and the passing of the Young God into manhood. The Si (often described as
"the spirits" or "the fairies") were thought to be especially active at
Beltane and the goal of many Beltane rituals was to appease the Si. Beltaine
was a "spring time festival of optimism" during which fertility rituals again
were important, perhaps connecting with the waxing power of the sun.

Traditions from this season include the celebration of the symbol
of fertility. This is the time of May poles, representing the phallus
symbol, while flowers and greenery represent the Goddess. Beltane is usually
celebrated in a forest, or near a living tree. Weaving is popular at this
time to join two separate things into one. Mirrors are symbols of Beltane and
represent a looking inward with the transition from adulthood back to the
possibilities of youth. The time when most of us had unbridled optimism, a
lack of fear and the power of positive thinking with no boundaries. Rituals
were performed to protect the cattle, crops and people, and to encourage
growth. Special bonfires were made, and their flames, smoke and ashes were
deemed to have protective powers. Holy
wells were often visited at Beltane. Visitors to holy wells would pray
for health while walking "sunwise" (moving from east to west) around the
well. They would then leave offerings, typically coins. The first water drawn from a well on Beltane was seen
as being especially potent, as was the morning dew. It is seen as one of the two most auspicious times for handfasting, a historical term for "betrothal" or "wedding". The other being at Lughnasadh. This is the time of the
Full Flower Moon. Discover how
to work with flower traditions and
rituals. See alsoBeltane.

MIDSUMMER or LITHA: (June 21st) Also known
as the Summer Solstice. The powers of nature reach
their highest point. Symbolically, this day represents solar power and
strength and is celebrated when the sun reaches its zenith. Summer solstice
celebrations occur all over the world. This time of greatest yang, male energy cannot be
denied. The "Yang" of Movement is the greatest point of Yang. At this apex,
Yang will start to turn into Yin. Yang energy is more masculine, is related
to light, sun, brightness, heaven, time, south, east and left. Those
belonging to yang energy have a tendency to be more assertive and self-
expressive. The "Yin" of Stillness has an understanding that there is a
relevance to the longest day of the year, as the sun peaks at its highest
point. Before its transition, it appears to come to an absolute stand still.
This is looking at the Yin or transition. Yin energy is more feminine, is
related to dark, moon, earth, north, west and right. Those belonging to yin
energy have a tendency to be more passive and introverted.

Traditions from this season include bonfires built and leaped over
to promote fertility, health, and love. This is the time of the longest
daylight hours, midsummer being the longest day of the year. The Celts, the
Norse, and the Slavs believed that there were three "spirit nights" in the
year when the magic threshold to the Otherworld was open. (First was
Samhain, second was Beltrane, and third was Midsummer. On this night's eve,
the Si are most active and visible by their actions. As the solstice sun
rises on its day of greatest power, it draws up with it the power of herbs,
standing stones and crystals. Various herbs and charms are placed beneath
your pillow to bringing prophetic dreams. Herbs for Midsummer include
vervain, chamomile, rose, lavender, daisy, carnation, and lily. Consider
learning the sun salutation.
Play music to enhance your experience. This is the time of the Full Strawberry Moon. See alsoLitha.

LUGHNASADH or LAMMAS: (August 1st) This is
the time for the first harvest of the year. Lughnasadh falls between the
summer solstice, when the Sun's strength is greatest, and the autumn equinox. Lammas, is thought mean "loaf mass" and Lughnasadh comes from the name of the Irish God and Sun deity, Lugh. This festival marks the gathering of the vegetables, fruits and grains ripened by his rays. This was also considered as a funeral feast. The solemn cutting of the first corn would be made an offering to the deity by bringing it up to a high place and burying it. We are therefore reminded at this time, that nothing in nature remains constant.

Traditions from this season include the harvest festival. The
bounties of the Earth are cut and stored for the long winter months. The
altar is blessed and adorned with fruits and vegetables, wheat, oats, bread
and muffins. It is custom to plant the seeds from the fruit eaten during the
celebration. It is seen as one of the two most auspicious times for handfasting, a historical term for "betrothal" or "wedding". The other being at Beltane. Some mark the holiday by baking a figure of the "corn god", Lugh in bread, and then symbolically sacrificing and eating it. This is the time of the Full Sturgeon or Full Grain Moon. See alsoLugh.

MABON: (September 23rd) This is also the Autumn Equinox. This is the time of
the completion of the harvest started at Lughnasadh. Day and night are equal
once more as the God prepares to travel toward renewal and rebirth from the
Goddess. Mabon is a sun festival celebrating the second harvest. Autumn is a season of shadows and a time of waning light, but it is also a season of abundance, giving thanks and harvest.

Traditions from this season include traditional walks through wilderness or fields, gathering dried plants to be used for decorating or
future herbal decoctions. The altar can be adorn with acorns, pine cones, corn stalks, and various colored Fall leaves. Because this celebration is marked by when the corn was supposed to be harvested at it's peak, farmers can work late into the night by the light of this Moon. This is the time of the Full Corn Moon. See alsoMabon.

Our lives are made up of the building blocks of change. Change creates the person we must grow to be. Change happens for a reason. That reason is to allow us possibilities we may not have seen in the first place. This can be traumatic or it can be less so.

The single most important point you can make about change is that in most cases it's not what faces you that's the problem, it's how you react to it.

How you react is determined by how you perceive a particular change. The Chinese word for crisis is "weiji". Two characters that separately mean danger and opportunity. Every problem we encounter in life can be viewed that way. It is a chance to show that we can handle it. Changing the way you think, can change a life of stress and discomfort to a life of challenge and excitement.

Change shows itself in many forms. The move to a different career, by choice or not, the loss of a loved one, the loss of a relationship, the move to a new home or simply the change in the weather and how we feel.

It is important to embrace the transition!. Struggling, kicking and screaming and dragging your heals will only prolong trying to control the uncontrollable. Learn to recognize strengths you may have overlooked. Embrace optimism and reform your old belief system. Honor the new you, which you are transforming into. Here are some ways to embrace change:

1. Often, in any situation, we must take the quiet time to be with ourselves to observe this change. How is it going to effect me? Better yet, how am I going to let it effect me? What am I going to do to get through this? Allow the answers to come to you in your quiet time.

2. Take Everything one day at a time. Sometimes situations can become overwhelming when looking at the big picture. Again, take your quiet time to observe the moment. Allow yourself to take all the time, take the space that you need to grasp the change.

3. Breath. Deep breathing allows us to open our chest and expand. It clears our minds and bodies of toxins and should be used as a tool for change. Allow the breathe to cleanse you and make room for change. Make room for something different.

4. Support. We are always put at ease when we have support behind us. In these vulnerable moments, we can find strength in others. If you have a good friend, a family member, a loved one or a community group that you can turn to, do so. Be sure that this support comes from a positive, unbiased source. Otherwise, it can be more damaging than good. Rest assure, there have been others who have gone through what you are experiencing right now. See if you can take away with you some of their positive pearls of wisdom.

5. Love Yourself. You are the true source to your own happiness. You have to live within yourself. You have to be at peace within yourself. Only you can do that. Only you can make that happen. We each have our own way of being with ourselves, but there is only one way to be at ease with your soul. That is to love yourself, always.

6. Our Belief System is one of the major factors that can get us through situations or can cause our life to crumble around us! I do believe that there is a lot of innate goodness and balancing our minds do subconsciously to get us through hard times. The other portion of this is how we "program" ourselves to deal with any given situation.

7. Let go of Ego. Embracing peace of mind, optimism, the ability to forgive, and a sense of humor are all good ways to allow the ego to step aside and make room for some humble pie.

8. Allow Emotional Release. Identifying, expressing, experiencing, and accepting all of our feelings is your doorway to accepting all change in your life.

9. Be Flexible. You have a rigid, mind set about work, relationships, kids or lifestyle. Learn a lesson from the willow tree and its ability to bend in the great wind. Where as, when we are rigid like the old oak tree, we can easily break apart under the stress of change. Learn to relax and follow the path unfolding before you.

10. Their Is No Security in something that is irrelevant or no longer has meaning. When we let go of the familiar, we have the power to embrace the new. Embrace it!

The medicinal benefits of herbs have been recorded for centuries. Herbs were extensively used to cure practically every known illness and have been documented by Egyptian, Roman, Native American, Persians and Hebrews alike. Many herbs contain powerful ingredients that, if used correctly, can help heal the body. By using herbs in their complete form, the body's healing process utilizes a balance of the ingredients provided by nature. The fresh leaves, bark, and roots of herbs can be used in their natural form or can be found in dried form and used in capsules, tablets, tinctures, essential oils, powders, creams, lotions, and salves. Herbs have a vibrational frequency that is in tune to that of our own bodies.

Aromatherapy is the practice of using naturally distilled essences of flowers and herbs to promote the health and well-being of your body, mind, and emotions. These essences, called essential oils, can restore balance and harmony to your body and to your life. Essential oils of herbs, fruit, and flower essences are created to center and enhance the body and mind in order to help us in preventative measures, as well as, an effective cure for many illnesses. Scents can induce an amazing power as they influence our moods. Our sense of smell is the most direct path to our emotions. This is the principle behind the ancient art of aromatherapy.

Sensing one's own energy vibrations is an individual experience and may take a little practice. The more open we are to the universal pathways, the easier we perceive the energy vibration. Regular energy work such as meditation, reiki, yoga, acupuncture, will bring a higher awareness and the change in perception that is important. I often teach that energy follows thought. Where we put our thoughts, which are where our energy goes. Simply by being aware of our energetic system and focusing on the various components we raise our vibrational frequencies.

Vibrational remedies are subtle energy stimuli, which interact with the energy system to help stabilize physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual conditions. Once balance is restored, we can easily rid ourselves of toxins and negative patterns that hinder our life processes. Through vibrational remedies we revive a proper flow of energy. The energy closest to the physical is where the meridians are found. That is why this level of energy can be manipulated through physical instruments, as with acupuncture; pressure from hands, as with massage or Chakra manipulation, as with herbs, crystals, color therapy and mind/breath work.

The word "Chakra" is Sanskrit for wheel or disk and signifies one of seven basic energy centers in the body. The Chakra are stations along the central axis of your being. Each one is a point at which energy can be expressed in a certain set of actions, attitudes and emotions. The Chakra are a map of the soul which must move and flow for healing to occur. Each of these centers correlates to major nerve ganglia branching out from the spinal column. In addition, the Chakra also correlate to levels of consciousness, archetypal elements, developmental stages of life, colors, sounds, body functions, scent and our viseral organs.

Muladhara: 1st Chakra (Base or Root Chakra): Earth, Physical identity, oriented to self-preservation. Located at the base of the spine, this chakra forms our foundation. It represents the element earth, and is therefore related to our survival instincts, and to our sense of grounding and connection to our bodies and the physical plane. Ideally this chakra brings us health, prosperity, security, and dynamic presence. The color for the root chakra is red and it is grounded with your power. When this chakra is open, you feel in good health and connected with your physical body. It is used to ground your essence into your physical body. This chakra gives you determination, grounds you and aids in survival in the physical realms. First chakra : Cedar, Clove, Pepper, Raspberry leaves, Vetiver. For example:

Cedarwood is considered the "tree of life" because it withstands the four elements year round no matter how harsh the seasons are. The name Thuja is a latin form of a Greek word meaning 'to fumigate,' or thuo ('to sacrifice'), for the fragrant wood was burnt by the ancients with sacrifices. Thuja also contains volatile oil, sugar, gelatinous matter, wax, resin, and Thujin. Works both as a stimulant and tonic as well as reducing stress and tension.

Clove is the most stimulating and carminative of all aromatics; given in essence, powder or infusion. The medicinal properties reside in the volatile oil. The oil must be kept in dark bottles in a cool place. Grounding and warming, clove works on warming the interior of the body.

Svadhisthana: 2nd Chakra (Spleen or Sexual Chakra): Water, Emotional identity, oriented to self-gratification. The second chakra, located in the abdomen, lower back, and sexual organs, is related to the element water, and to emotions and sexuality. It connects us to others through feeling, desire, sensation, and movement. Ideally this chakra brings us fluidity and grace, depth of feeling, sexual fulfillment, and the ability to accept change. The color for this chakra is orange. It is used for creativity, vitality and sexual expression and creates the balance between connectedness with other people and time spent alone. The spleen chakra is located in the sexual organs-- ovaries in women and testes in men. Second chakra : Burdock, Damiana, Gardenia, Sandalwood, Ylang-Ylang. For example:

Gardenia has very fragrant creamy-white flowers and glossy, dark-green leaves. Gardenia jasminoides is native to China although they are cultivated all over the world. The pods are used in the Chinese Materia Medica for clear heat in the body. The perfume oil can be used to anoint the second Chakra and it?s petals make for a fragrant bath ingredient or to can entrance the senses!

Sandalwood fights infection, especially in the urinary tract, relieves muscle spasm, softens and soothes all skin types, moisturizes, stimulates new cell growth, clears mucous, congestion, calms nerves, stimulates sexual desires. Sandalwood and is the oil from the first pressing. This oil is known as "Liquid Gold" and is the third oil referred to in the Wise Men's sacred offerings.

Manipura: 3rd Chakra (Solar Plexus Chakra): Fire, Ego identity, oriented to self-definition. This chakra is known as the power chakra, located in the solar plexus. It rules our personal power, will, and autonomy, as well as our metabolism. When healthy, this chakra brings us energy, effectiveness, spontaneity, and non-dominating power. The color for this chakra is yellow. Yellow is very good for getting in touch with your power and to build confidence. It is your center of will. This Chakra deals with the human ego, emotions and self-love. Intuition is believed to begin in the area of our energy center Solar Plexus Chakra. Although, the Third Eye Chakra is most associated with intuition, the "spark" is what is felt in the area of our solar plexus. This being the biggest nerve center in our body connected to almost all the organs, the solar plexus is often where we consider our "gut" feeling to come from. This is also where the connection between the three lower Chakra interchange with the four higher Chakra energy centers. Third chakra : Bergamot, Carnation, Lavender, Marshmallow, Rosemary. For example:

Bergamot has antiseptic properties. This makes it useful for urinary tract infections, acne and skin problems, cystitis, arthritis, respiratory ailments, cold sores and other herpes related ailments. The source of this scent is from the rinds of the fruit. The aromatherapy benefits are that it refreshes and uplifts and has a lovely light lemon, orange citrus aroma.

Marshmallow stimulates the immune system and the production of white blood cells. It also soothes inflammation, slows production of mucus, and reduces sugar levels in the body. This herb stimulates this Chakra and can be found in its most popular form of tincture or capsules.

Anahata: 4th Chakra (Heart Chakra): Air, Social identity, oriented to self-acceptance. This chakra is called the heart chakra and is the middle chakra in a system of seven. It is related to love and is the integrator of opposites in the psyche: mind and body, male and female, persona and shadow, ego and unity. A healthy fourth chakra allows us to love deeply, feel compassion, have a deep sense of peace and centeredness. The color for this chakra is green. This chakra deals with physical healing, balance, harmony, compassion and love. The heart chakra is located near the
heart. Fourth chakra : Geranium, Hawthorn berries, Jasmine, Lavender, Marjoram, Orris root, Rose oil, Yarrow. For example:

Hawthorn berries are the herb of choice for the heart. Hawthorne Berry may help strengthen the heart, help increase blood flow, encourage healthy blood pressure levels and maintain healthy arteries. Useful for anemia, and circulatory disorders, high cholesterol and lowered immunity. High in Vitamins B &C, it is also used as a kidney tonic. Often used as a digestive aid.

Jasmine, jasmine officinalis is used as a relaxing and antidepressant oil, which gives rise to it's status as an aphrodisiac. A wonderful oil for the skin especially dry skin conditions. Calms nerves, reduces inflammation, fights infection, clears mucus, softens skin. Thousands of jasmine flower picked at just the right time are then steam distillation in order to utilize the aromatherapy benefits of relaxing, soothing and a sheer confidence builder.

Rose, is the Mother of All Flowers, the Rose has amazing powers oflove, trust and self acceptance. Roses are representative offaith, hope and love and has the qualities to restore the verycenter of one's being. A gentle tonic of the heart, Rose oil's psychological properties lie mainly in its effect on the mind,the center of our emotional being. Rose oil calms and supports the heart and helps to nourish the soul! Also symbolizing the feminine, red is the color of choice for Roses used or gathered at Midsummer. Long associated with the eternity of true love, at Midsummer this flower also blesses the Sacred Union.

Visuddhi: 5th Chakra (Throat Chakra): Sound, Creative identity, oriented to self-expression This is the chakra located in the throat and is thus related to communication and creativity. Here we experience the world symbolically through vibration, such as the vibration of sound representing language. The color for this chakra is blue. This chakra deals with communication and expression. The throat chakra is located near the thyroid gland. Opening this chakra allows you to speak the truth and to express your true feelings with love. Fifth chakra : Benzoin, Basil, Chamomile, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Red Clover, Sage. For example:

Sage in tincture form or when burned, has a pungent odor. Sage is used principally for smudging but can also be used in the blessing down of our homes and vehicles. It is commonly used in medicine tea to flush ones system of all impurities. In sweat lodge ceremonies, sage is used to sit on and represents part of the plant world. It is also burned in smudge pots. The herb is widely used in many of our sacred ceremonies.

Chamomile, an herb of the sun, Chamomile's bright yellow flowers bring power and light to your space and rituals. Chamomile's medicinal properties range from skin inflammations to lightening hair to treating digestive problems. As a mild sedative, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial, it improves digestion by relaxing the muscles throughout the gastrointestinal system and it can induce an overall sense of calm and well-being.

Ajna: 6th Chakra (Third Eye Chakra): Light, Archetypal identity, oriented to self-reflection. This chakra is known as the brow chakra or third eye center. It is related to the act of seeing, both physically and intuitively. As such it opens our psychic faculties and our understanding of archetypal levels. When healthy it allows us to see clearly, in effect, letting us "see the big picture." The color for this chakra is indigo, a combination of red and blue. This chakra deals with clairvoyance and mental activity. The third eye chakra is located in the center of the forehead. Sixth chakra : Eyebright, Jasmine, Mint, Mugwort, Star Anise. For example:

Eyebright is one of the primary herbs used for eye care. It has been depended upon for at least 2000 years in the treatment of various eye problems. It is especially useful for eyestrain, over-sensitivity to light, eye inflammations, weeping eyes and other eye ailments. In addition, Eye Bright can relieve other symptoms that often accompany runny, sore, itchy eyes due to colds or allergies. This herb lends its power to the third eye by virtue of it?s proximity, it?s auric imprint and true intention.

Mugwort is a wonderful warming herb that is used to boost the Yang energy in Chinese Medicine. Burned like ceremonial sage or cedar, or on the body on slices of garlic, ginger or onion, this rich fragrant herb can assist in any type of cold in the body. Because of its Yang nature, it assists in the up and outward movement of energy from the inside (Yin Nature) to cast out into the Universe power of intention and intuition, which is all that empowers with the third eye.

Sahasrara: 7th Chakra (Crown or Christ Consciousness Chakra): Thought, Universal identity, oriented to self-knowledge. This is the crown chakra that relates to consciousness as pure awareness. It is our connection to the greater world beyond, to a timeless, spaceless place of all-knowing. When developed, this chakra brings us knowledge, wisdom, understanding, spiritual connection, and bliss. The color for this chakra is a mixture of Silver, Gold and White and Violet. It is the combination of All that Is and the Divine Connection. The crown chakra is located at the top of the head. The silver is the feminine energy of creation, the gold is the masculine energy of creation, and the white/violet light is truth and clarity which give clear vision of the truth and protection. Seventh chakra : Frankincense, Lavender flower, Lotus, Neroli, Rose, Olibanum, Spruce. For example:

Frankincense rejuvenates skin, so it's used on mature and aging complexions and to fade old scars, reduce inflammation, moisturize dry hair, and cure acne. A holiday favorite, this pungent scent is often associated with Christmas and is said to be one of the gifts of the Magi. Its antiseptic properties fight bacterial and fungal skin infections in a salve, lotion, or as a compress. This oil works in two ways to help the body fight infection and pain. It first numbs nerve endings to reduce the amount of pain sensations that reach the brain. And then it boosts the body's immune system to accelerate the healing process. As an added bonus, the oil's aroma relaxes the brain, which helps bring on sleep.

Neroli is a rich citrus scent often used in the scenting of perfumes. Neroli oil has a sweet, floral and slightly haunting aroma. This essential oil is also known as 'orange blossom' and it takes about 1000 lbs. of orange blossoms to make 1 lb. of Neroli oil. The orange petals were used in China in the making of cosmetics and are still an ingredient for making traditional smelling Eau-de-cologne. Orange petals are often associated with marriage, purity and brides who traditionally wore it in their hair.

9. Enjoy all types of seafood, including shellfish and canned fish
packed in water.

10. Make an egg omelet using egg whites and either one or no egg yolk.

The Beef on Cholesterol

You often never hear anything good about cholesterol, but it actually
has some very important functions in the body. Cholesterol is a
fatty, wax-like substance that helps the brain and nervous system
operate normally, and it's used to make cell walls, hormones and
vitamin D.

Too much cholesterol in the blood is what creates a problem. A risk
factor for both heart attack and stroke, high blood cholesterol
increases the chance of plaque or blockages developing in arteries.

Lowering blood cholesterol can slow or stop the buildup of plaque.
While your risk of cardiovascular disease depends on many factors,
from genetics to lifestyle habits, keeping your blood cholesterol
levels within ideal ranges can greatly lower your risk.

Consider some dietary changes, such as drinking green tea and
eating more soluble fiber (oat bran), foods rich in omega-3 fatty
acids (salmon, sardines, walnuts), and leafy greens and fresh fruits.
Foods like onions, garlic, chili peppers and shiitake mushrooms all
have some cholesterol lowering effects. Reduce your intake of
saturated fats. That means fats of animal origin, in addition to palm
and coconut oils, margarine, vegetable shortening and all products
made with partially hydrogenated oils of any kind. (Keep in mind
that your body makes its own cholesterol. Eating saturated fats
increases that production.) Also, cut out coffee, black tea and cola.

Try to bring your cholesterol under control with a low-fat diet
and daily exercise (at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity).
These changes are essential to any cholesterol-lowering program,
no matter what supplement or drug you take.

Cholestin is a natural supplement product with a very
long history of traditional use Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Cholestin comes from a strain of red yeast (Monascus) that is
used as a natural flavoring and food coloring in Chinese cooking.
The active component, Lovastatin, is also the key ingredient in
an allopathic drug called Mevacor, an FDA-approved cholesterol
drug available by prescription. Cholestin can be found in a health
food store.

Limiting Saturated Fat Is Most Important

The cholesterol found in food (called dietary cholesterol),can raise
your blood cholesterol. Only foods that come from animals contain
cholesterol. Egg yolks, organ meats, and whole milk dairy products
are especially high in cholesterol. To keep dietary intake of
cholesterol at the recommended level of 300 milligrams (mg) per day
or less:

-Avoid organ meats.

-Limit egg yolks to 4 per week.

-Eat no more than 6-8 ounces of meat/poultry/seafood per day.

-Choose fat free or low fat dairy products.

-Limiting dietary cholesterol is beneficial, but reducing saturated
fat intake is a much more effective way to lower blood cholesterol
levels.

-Saturated fats are usually solid at room temperature. They are found
primarily in animal fats like poultry, beef, or dairy fat. Two
vegetable oils, palm and coconut, are also highly saturated, as are
hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated (solid) vegetable
shortenings.

-Unsaturated fats that include monounsaturated (olive and canola
oils) and polyunsaturated fats (safflower and sunflower oils) are the
healthiest choices.

Fiber, Flaxseed, Garlic, Guggul, Yeast

Dietary fiber is the part of a plant that is resistant to the body's
digestive enzymes. Only a relatively small amount of fiber is
digested or metabolized in the stomach or intestines. Most of it
moves through the gastrointestinal tract and ends up in the stool.
Although most fiber is not digested, it delivers several important
health benefits.

First, fiber retains water, resulting in softer and bulkier stools
that prevent constipation and hemorrhoids. A high-fiber diet also
reduces the risk of colon cancer, perhaps by speeding the rate at
which stool passes through the intestine and by keeping the digestive
tract clean. In addition, fiber binds with certain substances that
would normally result in the production of cholesterol, and
eliminates these substances from the body.

In this way, a high-fiber diet helps lower blood cholesterol levels,
reducing the risk of heart disease.It is recommended that about 30-60
percent of your total daily calories come from carbohydrates. If much
of your diet consists of healthy complex carbohydrates, you should
easily fulfill the recommended daily minimum of 25 grams of fiber.
About 2 slices of whole wheat bread and 2 glasses of dissolvable
fiber (psyllium husk, pectin and guar gum) a day equals the
requirement for lowering cholesterol levels.

Flaxseed oil is derived from the seeds of the flax plant. Flaxseed oil and flaxseed contain substances that promote good health and is used as a nutritional supplement. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, especially alpha-linolenic acid, which appears to be beneficial for heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, cholesterol and a variety of other health conditions. Flaxseed also contains a group of chemicals called lignans that may play a role in the prevention of cancer. Take 1,000 mg of flaxseed oil in the morning and 1,000 mg in the evening.

Garlic. So much research has been done on the great benefits of
garlic. In Europe, garlic has come to be seen as an all-around
treatment for preventing atherosclerosis, the cause of heart disease
and strokes. Garlic may fight atherosclerosis in many ways, such as
protecting against free radicals, countering the tendency of the
blood to clot, and possibly reducing blood pressure and cholesterol
levels. Preliminary evidence suggests that regular use of garlic may
help prevent cancer. Garlic may be an effective antibiotic when it
contacts the tissue directly, but there is no evidence that it works
like a standard antibiotic, spreading throughout the body and killing
organisms everywhere. Garlic has known antifungal properties,and
there is preliminary evidence suggesting that Ajoene, a compound
derived from garlic, might help treat athlete's foot. Garlic has also
been proposed as a treatment for asthma, candida, colds, diabetes,
and vaginal infections. Garlic oil products are often recommended for
children's ear infections. While these products may reduce pain, it
is very unlikely that they have any actual effect on the infection
because the eardrum is in the way. Contrary to some reports, garlic
does not appear to be a useful treatment for Helicobacter pylori, the
stomach bacteria implicated as a major cause of ulcers.
One clove a day or 900 mg a day is recommended.

Guggul (gum guggul) is a resin produced by the mukul mirth tree.
Guggulipid is extracted from guggul and contains chemicals
called "plant sterols" (guggulsterones E and Z), which are believed
to be active in the human body. Experts from UT Southwestern Medical
Center at Dallas and Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, found
that the extract blocks the body's Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR).
This receptor plays a key role in managing cholesterol levels by
triggering the process in which the body converts cholesterol to bile
acids.

It this process happens too quickly the body is not able to get rid
of enough cholesterol, leaving levels high and increasing the risks
of heart disease.
The researchers said their findings, published in the latest issue of
Science magazine (May 2002), could pave the way for the use of
guglipid in new cholesterol-lowering drugs.

Guggul is a resin known to increase white blood cell counts and
possess strong disinfecting properties. A wide range of actions makes
this plant very helpful not only in protecting against the common
cold, but also in various skin, dental and ophthalmic infections. In
addition, Guggul has long been known to lower cholesterol and
triglycerides, while maintaining or improving the HDL to LDL ratio.
Standard guggul extracts contain 5% guggulsterones which tanslates
to a dose of 500mg three times a day.

Red yeast rice is the product of yeast ( Monascus purpureus ) grown on rice, and is served as a dietary staple in some Asian countries. It contains several compounds collectively known as monacolins, substances known to inhibit cholesterol synthesis. One of these, "monacolin K," is a potent inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase, and is also known as mevinolin or lovastatin. The use of red yeast rice in China was first documented in the Tang Dynasty in 800 A.D. A detailed description of its manufacture is found in the ancient Chinese pharmacopoeia. In this text, red yeast rice is proposed to be a mild aid for gastric problems (indigestion, diarrhea), blood circulation, and spleen and stomach health. Small scale studies using pharmaceutical-grade red rice yeast have continued to demonstrate efficacy and safety.

Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes, until set (doesn't
jiggle when you move the pan). Let cool. Place in refrigerator and
chill for 12 hours.

Topping: You may use any kind of topping such as strawberries in
syrup, chocolate, vegan whipped cream, etc. My personal favorite is
drizzling the cheesecake in Ah!Laska vegan chocolate syrup and adding
fresh raspberries. Mmm!

Serves: 8-10

Preparation time: 30 min.
___________________________

Low Fat/Fat Free Holiday Tips

-Consider fat-free cream cheese and lean cuts of turkey or ham in
pinwheels and roll-ups.

-Use fat-free and low sodium broths a soup base. Use pureed root
vegetables or beans to thicken them instead of heavy cream.

-Substitute low-fat or fat-free versions of mayonnaise, yogurt and
sour cream to make dips.

-Have plenty of fresh salads and vegetables on the table

-On the dessert table, place a large arrangement of fresh fruit,
ready to eat.

If the aroma of pine is what brings back memories like going out and cutting your own tree, we have a top list of memory-joggers that you are going to love! With nature's essential oils, the aroma of Christmas need not be forgotten. Simply spray the tree with a mixture of 1 cup of water and 6 drops of essential oil of pine, or put a few drops of pine oil on an absorbent material and tuck around the base of the tree. Here are several essential oils that you may use to help re-create your Christmas memories.

Cinnamon (Cinnamoma cassia): Cinnamon comes from the dried bark of trees in the laurel family. Cinnamon has a rich history in Chinese medicine as well as Western herbal medicine. A holiday favorite, this dark scent is often used to accent cookies, cakes and cocoa. Cinnamon tea is not only delightful but helpful for relieving nausea and indigestion. Cinnamon oil is great for colds. Add a few drops of cinnamon oil to boiling water and inhale the steam. Cinnamon oil is also used as a massage oil and has a warming effect on skin.

Clove (Caryophyllum aromaticus): Clove is a hot oil. A holiday favorite, this delicious scent is often used in warming recipes. It can be used in a carrier oil for any infection. It has been used in the dental industry for years to deaden pain. Clove oil can be applied topically with a carrier. It has been used for arousing and fortifying. According to a study at the University of Iowa, compounds in clove oil have shown "strong activity" against bacteria associated with plaque and gum disease.

Pine (Pinus sylvestris) : Pine Needle was used by the ancient Romans and Greeks to treat respiratory problems and muscular aches. A holiday staple, this fantastic scent is often used to accent potpourri and diffused into the air. It promotes a healthy immune and musculoskeletal system. Distilled in Austria from the finest pines, Pine Needle can be diffused to help strengthen the respiratory tract and maintain sinus passages. When massaged into the skin, Pine Needle supports healthy circulation and soothes the discomfort of sore joints and muscles. A true disinfectant, a strong germ killer, excellent for viral infections and for muscular aches, rheumatism and arthritis.

Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica), (Juniperus virginiana) : A holiday favorite, this fragrant scent is often used in accenting closets and cupboards. Cedar is a versatile oil that acts as an astringent and a cleansing agent. Believed to have originated from the famous Lebanon cedars, this essential oil provides an exhilarating tonic for the scalp and face to help the body deal with dandruff and acne. It can also be massaged into the skin for soothing, relaxing muscle rubs. Cedars are thought to offer longevity, and the oil it yields was used for embalming in ancient Egypt, and as an incense by Tibetan monks to aid in meditation.

Neroli (Citrus aurantium) : A holiday favorite, this rich citrus scent is often used in the scenting of perfumes. Neroli oil has a sweet, floral and slightly haunting aroma, the color is pale yellow and the viscosity is watery. This essential oil is also known as 'orange blossom' and it takes about 1000 lbs. of orange blossoms to make 1 lb. of Neroli oil.The name Neroli is said to originate from the Italian princess, Anne-Marie de la Tremoille, Countess of Nerola, who used the oil as a perfume and to scent her bathwater and gloves.The orange petals were used in China in the making of cosmetics and are still an ingredient for making traditional smelling Eau-de-cologne. Orange petals are often associated with marriage, purity and brides who traditionally wore it in their hair.

Sweet Orange (Citrus vulgaris) : The orange in itself is a highlight nutrias fruit containing many vitamins including A, B, and C. Being that essential oils are extracted directly from the peel of the orange, it contains all of these natural nutrients as well. This yellow-orange oil is quite sweet in fragrance and is used in ?fruity? fragrance blends. Orange may also be used by itself for a light personal scent. Orange has been used as a beauty oil especially for the neck to help prevent and reduce the appearance of lines. Being that it is a citrus essential oil, it may cause irritation in people with sensitive skin.

Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) : Frankincense rejuvenates skin, so it's used on mature and aging complexions and to fade old scars, reduce inflammation, moisturize dry hair, and cure acne. A holiday favorite, this pungent scent is often associated with Christmas and is said to be one of the gifts of the Magi. Its antiseptic properties fight bacterial and fungal skin infections in a salve, lotion, or as a compress. It also treats infection of the lungs, the reproductive organs, and the urinary tract, and it increases the menstrual flow. the oil works in two ways to help the body fight infection and pain. It first numbs nerve endings to reduce the amount of pain sensations that reach the brain. And then it boosts the body's immune system to accelerate the healing process. As an added bonus, the oil's aroma relaxes the brain, which helps bring on sleep.

Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) : Myrrh has been used since Biblical times to treat many ailments. A holiday favorite, this pungent scent is often associated with Christmas and is said to be one of the gifts of the Magi. It is a sap that dries into hard crystals. The sap is used by some for making tinctures. Myrrh is both antiseptic and astringent. It is used today as a mouth wash and used for treatment of mouth ulcers, sore throats and even for the relief of sore gums. To use it as a mouthwash, drop a few drops of the sap into a glass of water.

Peppermint (Mentha piperata) : Peppermint recalls the images of candy canes and sweet treats made from this wonderful oil. Peppermint has the powerful therapeutic ingredient menthol, as well as menthone, menthyl acetate and some 40 other compounds. Peppermint is a naturally occurring hybrid of spearmint (M. spicata) and water mint (M. aquatica). The oil is made by steam-distilling the plant's aromatic leaves and stems. Peppermint oil acts as a muscle relaxant, particularly in the digestive tract, reduces the inflammation of nasal passages and relieve muscle pains. A mixture of peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil and ethanol (ethyl alcohol) on the forehead and temples can reduce headache pain. Peppermint can be take as a tea, capsules or tinctures.

Traditionally, herbs have been used for cleansing for centuries.
These herbs can be utilized when dry, for creating a sense of
purity, renewal and divine clearing! Simply light a bit of these
herbs and waft the smoke around an area you wish to clear of
unwanted scents, negative energy or to simply start a new day with.
Using a natural receptor such as a sea shell, abalone shell or
crystal bowl can be a place to place your herbs after you are
done using them.

Sweet Grass has the most sacred usage's of all the purification
herbs. It is a seasonal plant and grows only in certain places. Sweet
grass is used primarily for the blessing of one's self. It is placed
in a shell or a bowl and burned, similar to incense. The smoke gives
forth a very pleasant smell. When people engage in the ceremony of
blessing ones self, he/she holds the bowl of burning herb and slowly
moves it around in a continuous circle surrounding the body from head
to foot with swirling smoke. Sweet Grass is often used for
purification during sweat lodge ceremonies. It is used for
smudging "(blessing-down)" our homes, protecting them from evil
spirits. It is also used to purify all of our sacred prayer
instruments.

Medicinally, it is used as a portion of a combination of other herbs
in a special formulated "medicine tea" which flushes the impurities
out of the body. Sweet grass is very calming and relaxing to the user
who is taught to use it in a traditional and respectful manner. The
sacred herb, sweet grass, is used in all phases of healing by the
doctoring healer.

Sage has a variety of uses. When burned, it has a pungent odor. Sage
is used principally for smudging but can also be used in the blessing
down of our homes and vehicles. It is commonly used in medicine tea
to flush ones system of all impurities. Along with tobacco and other
substances, sage is part of a mixture used in the sacred smoking of
the pipe. There are may varieties of sage. However, in many places,
the natural supply of sage is dwindling. This is due, in part, to
people harvesting sage in order to sell it to the general public. In
recent years, there seems to be an increase in the fascination with
the use of sage burning.

In sweat lodge ceremonies, sage is used to sit on and represents part
of the plant world. It is also burned in smudge pots. The herb is
widely used in many of our sacred ceremonies including but not
limited to lodges, drum circles, healing and doctoring.

There are several different types of these sacred herbs. They are
found all over this great land. To some tribes, Cedar is considered
the "tree of life" because it withstands the four elements year
round no matter how harsh the seasons are. These herbs are used
extensively in all sacred ceremonies, healing, and doctoring methods.
It makes an excellent tea for the purpose of flushing out the system.

Compassion develops out of our spontaneous feelings of sympathy with others. However, as a spiritual virtue compassion cannot be equated with a sentimental effusion of emotion, nor does it necessarily imply a dictum to lose oneself in altruistic activity. Though compassion surely includes emotional empathy and often does express itself in action, it comes to full maturity only when guided by wisdom and tempered by detachment.

Wisdom enables us to see beyond the adventitious misfortunes with which living beings may be temporarily afflicted to the deep and hidden dimensions of suffering inseparable from conditioned existence. As a profound and comprehensive understanding of the Four Noble Truths, wisdom discloses to us the wide range, diverse gradations, and subtle roots of the suffering to which our fellow beings are enmeshed, as well as the means to lead them to irreversible release from suffering. Hence the directives of spontaneous sympathy and mature compassion are often contradictory, and only the latter are fully trustworthy as guides to beneficent action effective in the highest degree.

Though often the judicious exercise of compassion will require us to act or speak up, sometimes it may well enjoin us to retreat into silence and solitude as the course most conducive to the long-range good of others as well as of ourselves.

Seven Compassion Practices

1. Morning ritual. Greet each morning with a ritual. Try this one, suggest by the Dalai Lama: “Today I am fortunate to have woken up, I am alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it. I am going to use all my energies to develop myself, to expand my heart out to others, to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all beings, I am going to have kind thoughts towards others, I am not going to get angry or think badly about others, I am going to benefit others as much as I can." Then, when you’ve done this, try one of the practices below.

2. Empathy Practice. The first step in cultivating compassion is to develop empathy for your fellow human beings. Many of us believe that we have empathy, and on some level nearly all of us do. But many times we are centered on ourselves (I'm no exception) and we let our sense of empathy get rusty. Try this practice: Imagine that a loved one is suffering. Something terrible has happened to him or her. Now try to imagine the pain they are going through. Imagine the suffering in as much detail as possible. After doing this practice for a couple of weeks, you should try moving on to imagining the suffering of others you know, not just those who are close to you.

3. Commonalities practice. Instead of recognizing the differences between yourself and others, try to recognize what you have in common. At the root of it all, we are all human beings. We need food, and shelter, and love. We crave attention, and recognition, and affection, and above all, happiness. Reflect on these commonalities you have with every other human being, and ignore the differences. One of my favorite exercises comes from a great article from Mental Floss, it's a five-step exercise to try when you meet friends and strangers. Do it discreetly and try to do all the steps with the same person. With your attention geared to the other person, tell yourself:

Step 1: "Just like me, this person is seeking happiness in his/her life."

Step 2: "Just like me, this person is trying to avoid suffering in his/her life."

Step 3: "Just like me, this person has known sadness, loneliness and despair."

Step 4: "Just like me, this person is seeking to fill his/her needs."

Step 5: "Just like me, this person is learning about life."

4. Relief of suffering practice. Once you can empathize with another person, and understand his humanity and suffering, the next step is to want that person to be free from suffering. This is the heart of compassion - actually the definition of it. Try this exercise: Imagine the suffering of a human being you've met recently. Now imagine that you are the one going through that suffering. Reflect on how much you would like that suffering to end. Reflect on how happy you would be if another human being desired your suffering to end, and acted upon it. Open your heart to that human being and if you feel even a little that you'd want their suffering to end, reflect on that feeling. That's the feeling that you want to develop. With constant practice, that feeling can be grown and nurtured.

5. Act of kindness practice. Now that you've gotten good at the 4th practice, take the exercise a step further. Imagine again the suffering of someone you know or met recently. Imagine again that you are that person, and are going through that suffering. Now imagine that another human being would like your suffering to end - perhaps your mother or another loved one. What would you like for that person to do to end your suffering? Now reverse roles: you are the person who desires for the other person's suffering to end. Imagine that you do something to help ease the suffering, or end it completely. Once you get good at this stage, practice doing something small each day to help end the suffering of others, even in a tiny way. Even a smile, or a kind word, or doing an errand or chore, or just talking about a problem with another person. Practice doing something kind to help ease the suffering of others. When you are good at this, find a way to make it a daily practice, and eventually a throughout-the-day practice.

6. Those who mistreat us practice. The final stage in these compassion practices is to not only want to ease the suffering of those we love and meet, but even those who mistreat us. When we encounter someone who mistreats us, instead of acting in anger, withdraw. Later, when you are calm and more detached, reflect on that person who mistreated you. Try to imagine the background of that person. Try to imagine what that person was taught as a child. Try to imagine the day or week that person was going through, and what kind of bad things had happened to that person. Try to imagine the mood and state of mind that person was in - the suffering that person must have been going through to mistreat you that way. And understand that their action was not about you, but about what they were going through. Now think some more about the suffering of that poor person, and see if you can imagine trying to stop the suffering of that person. And then reflect that if you mistreated someone, and they acted with kindness and compassion toward you, whether that would make you less likely to mistreat that person the next time, and more likely to be kind to that person. Once you have mastered this practice of reflection, try acting with compassion and understanding the next time a person treats you. Do it in little doses, until you are good at it. Practice makes perfect.

7. Evening routine. I highly recommend that you take a few minutes before you go to bed to reflect upon your day. Think about the people you met and talked to, and how you treated each other. Think about your goal that you stated this morning, to act with compassion towards others. How well did you do? What could you do better? What did you learn from your experiences today?

There is always more than one route to the outcome you are seeking. However, to keep it simple, we will only explore a couple of starting points here. To allow your mind access to "other worlds," you might find it useful to have your left brain agree that experiencing unseen worlds is a possibility, a possibility that even you can have access to.

Start from the premise that there is evidence - scientific evidence even - that energies are present that you cannot see or feel or smell. We cannot see microwaves or infrared waves, but we know they exist because we have devices that can measure them. Much of the universe exists in this unseen form. Scientists estimate that 90% of the universe is "dark matter" - something that is beyond our abilities to see or even measure. The human senses can only calibrate information from a very small range of frequencies. Furthermore, of the impulses that our senses can calibrate, only a small fraction of these make it into our brain for interpretation. Much of what we are accessing right now with our senses is being filtered. Are you aware, in this moment, of your little toe on your left foot? Were you aware of it before I mentioned it? We are filtering multitudes of sensory input every second and ignoring much of what is there.

Magnitudes of information exist in frequency ranges that are beyond our ability to sense with the sensory organs of the physical body. And yet, people regularly report having access to this information. We've all come into contact with someone who has what we term as "extra-sensory" perception. Whether it is a mother's intuition that her child needs her even though they are miles apart or grandma's premonitions that always came true, most of us know someone who has the strange ability to access information beyond their five senses. If you can accept that there are frequencies that our regular senses can't pick up, and you see that others have access to some of this, then clearly the possibility exists that even you can tap into these other worlds!

Another angle you may want to consider as a way to appease your left brain is to delve into the leading quantum theories of prominent physicists. When these physicists examined very, very small subatomic particles, they realized that there is a certain point where matter coheres. Before this point, it does not exist in physical form. Indeed, much speculation has been made of this pre-matter phase being composed of simply a field of probabilities. This means that the information exists prior to becoming matter as not just pure potential, but as multiple pure potentials. The information is out there even if it is not in a physical form.

Now consider who you are as consciousness. Are you limited to your physical body? Most people who are familiar with the power of their thoughts or their dreams would likely agree that they are more than their physical body. The Monroe Institute is a great resource for people who would like to explore themselves beyond their physical bodies. In terms of awareness, I would suggest that human consciousness can become aware of itself on many levels outside of our physical 3-D experience. All that is required is tuning our awareness to the place just beyond the point where information and potential cohere into matter. This type of tuning explains why there are people who have premonitions that come true. Perhaps you think of a friend who calls you minutes later. You may already be picking up the thoughts and feelings of those around you, which are simply information that has not cohered into matter or experience yet.

If your left brain can concede one or more of these points -- that energies exist that cannot be measured by our physical senses; that beyond matter, potentials of possibility exist as patterns of light and information; that some people can pick up on these energies and patterns -- then you have enough flexibility in your consciousness right now to start experiencing these phenomena yourself.

The above is an excerpt from the book Beyond Human: Claiming the Power and Magic of Your Limitless Self
by Jaden Rose Phoenix. The above excerpt is a digitally scanned reproduction of text from print. Although this excerpt has been proofread, occasional errors may appear due to the scanning process. Please refer to the finished book for accuracy.

Jaden Rose Phoenix, author of Beyond Human: Claiming the Power and Magic of Your Limitless Self
, internationally-respected master teacher and alchemist, is founder of Alchemy Wisdom, a healing arts center focused on creating life-changing transformation for clients. A student of ancient and modern alchemy and consciousness technologies, her workshops and classes are prized for their simple, down-to-earth approach to exploring and harnessing the potential of consciousness.

For more information please visit http://alchemywisdom.com and follow the author on Facebook and Twitter

Now more than ever, we need to be in our bodies at all times. Even in our dream
state, we need to be including the body and our physical existence. All that we
are to become in the Light needs to be run through the body and we need to be
present as the Gatekeeper to monitor that which you allow to enter. The energy
of the entire Universe is about to befall our planet and some of it is not in
the Light. Many of you will be elevated into Lightworkers, Spiritual Warriors
and Soul Warriors. With this comes an ever present state of existence which
includes being in the body.

When you are not in the body, who is managing the ship! By not being present
even in meditation, you are opening doors to what ever wants to come in... not a
way that you would run your home safely is it?

You can reach the higher consciousness levels while being fully present in your
body. If everyone in the world was in their body all the time... we would be
able to compassionately solve our differences and learn from each other.

Now lets take a look at some common ways that causes the consciousness to leave
the body.

The Sixth Chakra

Popularly called the Third Eye. When placing your focused attention on the third
eye to achieve higher consciousness, you are leaving the heart of female
intuition and climbing into the male energy of pure action, and creating a loose
cannon without focus of mission. Action without intuition.

Meditation

Using meditation to leave your body to find higher consciousness outside of
yourself instead of within your self causes difficult re-entry and irretrievable
lost sectors of your reality. You also pick up cosmic gunk that is not your
energy nor your frequency. Why leave the temple that you chose to enter to work
out your soul plan?

Dark Walk-Ins

The seduction of the bliss of leaving the body and floating in "woo woo" land of
spiritual cotton candy, leaves your body temple open to possible walk-ins and
"looky loo's" that leave negative tracers in your temple, thus jamming your
brain abilities to be the master of your house when you return.

High Fevers, Low Esteem

In many cases of low self esteem, there lies a belief of unworthiness and
victimization. In rare cases, when this combination is aligned with illness or
in trauma, the desire to "pop out" of the body may occur.

Abnormal Daydreaming

This is when daydreaming is used to avoid reality on more than a casual
occurrence.

Overwhelmed

The emotional point that you reach where you can no longer do one more thing.
Immobilization occurs along with over saturation. This is when so much has
stacked up on you, that you don't notice it until the smallest of details can
cause you to freeze up.

Now lets look at the benefits of staying in your body.

Being in the Moment

It is impossible to be present and in the moment if you are out of your body.
Being in the moment allows for the body to be continually transmuting data of
life stimulus and emotions, that advance your path work by feeding the Soul.

Working Through Lessons

Lessons cannot be learn, transferred to the cellular tissue memory within the
body, nor be applied to reality, if you are out of the body. You are only in a
state of concept and even if you bring that concept back into the body, it will
have to be re-run to align with the physical parameters.

Physical Soul Experience

When you have a body, your Soul gains a full dimensional experience of concept
into action. It locks in the wisdom by transcending the dimensions into the more
solidified realms. Very powerful.

Changing Karmic Contracts

You can only change your Karmic Contracts by being in the body. The code for
these changes is linked to the level of existence in which you have chosen for a
certain length of time. The Soul does the work of identifying a need or a
change, or to set boundaries before incarnation into a physical journey. Only
when in the physical body can change occur by adaptation according to the codes
of the physical levels.

Shifting Frequencies

As the shift in the Universe, so all else follows. If you are not in the body
when these shifts happen, and they occur all the time, you are left out. This
makes it harder for you to function because the seamless flow of ascension code
has been interrupted.

Being Connected to Mother Gaiama

When you are connected to Gaiama, all the personal shifts, changes, and upgrade
of frequencies are automatically calibrated according to your nature. If you are
out of your body, no permission is given to allow these wonderful gifts to be
received. Gaiama needs you to be ever present with her now, and not run away
from her and your body, but come into yourself with her guidance.

Accepting Change
When you are in the moment and in the body, making necessary changes in your
thoughts and feelings are given an intuitive action that is conducive to your
nature and the nature of the change being presented. When not in the body, these
changes cannot be implemented, thus stacking of issues occurs waiting for you to
come home.

Sense of Being Connected

Even though you may feel that you are connected to a collective of Guides and
Avatars in the ethers, your return to your body will reinforce the feelings of
home sickness and abandonment. The body needs to have connection to like-minded
beings in the physical form. Friends at your dinner table is much more rewarding
than the friends in your head!

Developing a Support Structure

Being in the body and developing a support structure for you physical existence,
reinforces the love you have for your body and your brave journey in the
physical realms. This brings about the fulfillment of the spiritual path because
it is supported by the Sacred Triad of the body, mind, spirit cohesion.

Seeing True Beauty

Things usually look pretty good on the etheric levels of the Divine Light and
the Universal Plans. However, when you can see the truth in the beauty of the
physical world, you are truly encompassing all of your gifts that brings great
richness to your Soul.

The Quickening

When you work on your path to higher enlightenment and consciousness of being,
there are the known and not so noticed "Aha's" that occur. The Quickening, is a
sort of initiation into these higher levels and can only be done when including
the physical existence as well. Steadfast is the Light that gains residence in
its Temple.

You are the chosen ones with brave hearts who have come into the physical
realities to give breath and depth of human existence, and to all the levels of
consciousness. All you have to do is to show up, be counted for, and be ever
present. Make it so Sweet Beings!

Rich and aromatic plant oils are most often associated with aromatherapy and are usually used in massage oils, incense and are diffused in the air for a soothing and healing affect. The benefits of essential oils can also be found with their tantalizing use in the kitchen. Cooking with essential oils is just another way of being creative with food preparations.

Essential oils are classified into three main categories and explain their benefits. The oils are classified as notes, top, middle, or base notes. These single notes have a general rule of thumb:

*Top notes: are the fastest acting and quickest to evaporate. Lasting 3-24 hrs.

*Base notes: are slower to evaporate, the most sedative and relaxing oils. Last up to approximately one week.

When cooking with essential oils, it is important to know that because they are extracted as nectar, they are very concentrated. Essential oils therefore, can add zest to any recipe and enrich the flavor of your creation. The FDA considers essential oils as a food additive and regards a majority of these oils as safe for use. Their safe use requires they be used in moderation and with proper care.

Here is a list of Essential Oils Certified as Generally regarded as safe (GRAS) and Food Additives (FA) by the FDA.

The flavor of these herbs and fruits are concentrated in their volatile oils, which are extracted by different methods in order for us to benefit from them. With this many oils at our fingertips, making tasteful, mouthwatering culinary dishes can be fun and inventive. Here are some general guidelines for certain groups of oils:

Fruity oils: such as lime, lemon, orange, tangerine, grapefruit and mandarin can add zest and a full flavor to drinks, desserts and sweet and sour recipes. Because these are generally top note oils, they evaporate quickly so adding them into your recipes toward the end is recommended.

Acrid or Spicy oils: such as black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, cumin and ginger are warming oils. A little of these oils go a long way. These are great oils for winter recipes or whenever you want to add a little spice to your food. They also are considered aphrodisiac oils.

Cooling, Mint oils: such as mint, peppermint and spearmint are great in recipes that call for a hint of mint such as jams, jellies, sauces or in a cooling tea for reducing heat in the body.

Floral oils: such as geranium, jasmine, lavender and rose are versatile and full-bodied in scent and essence. It takes thousands of petals to produce an ounce of rose oil. Lavender oil is rich in scent and flavor and can be added to meats, desserts or any creative recipes you make. These floral oils can entice and bring out the best in any culinary adventure.

Herbal oils: such as basil, dill, fennel, marjoram, mellisa, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, tarragon and thyme are rich and flavorful oils that only need a hint in any recipe to embody an herbaceous taste.

When making recipes with essential oils, a little goes a long way. The rule of thumb is to add the oils toward the end of the simmering, baking or boiling process. The heat will evaporate the oils quickly; so in order to take advantage of the oils scent and flavor, adding them into the recipe at the last minutes prolongs the goodness.

The possibilities for flavoring are endless. The best way to try your creation with essential oils is through trial and error. It is recommended that 2-3 drops of oil in a recipe would have its greatest effect. Below are some general guidelines and suggestions for oils by groups.

Seasonal recipes can spark up any celebration, new moon or gathering. Adding essential oils to these recipes allow us to take advantage of the herbs and oils of that particular season and offer a taste of what the holiday will bring! Here are some seasonal recipes that can be created now or anytime!

Spring Chicken

Roast, grill or bake a whole chicken. Add 2 drops each of rosemary lemon and sage oils in a mixing cup. Add 4 tablespoons of olive oil to the essential oils. Brush the cooked chicken with the mixture, cover the chicken and place it back on the heat for 10-15 minutes. Allow the oils to penetrate the chicken for a full-bodied flavor. Serve.

Summer Cooler Treats

To a 2-quart pitcher of water add 2 drops each of two of these oils of cinnamon, grapefruit, lavender, lime, lemon, mandarin, orange, peppermint, spearmint and tangerine. Stir the mixture and add ice and a sprig of mint or rind of orange for color. Serve.

Fall Pot Roast

Add 2 drops each of basil, clove and tarragon oils in a mixing cup. Add 4 tablespoons of olive oil to the essential oils. Brush the mixture on the uncooked meat. Roast the meat in the oven. You may want to consider roasting in a roasting bag to keep in the flavor and juices from the meat. Once the meat is cooked, remove the pot roast and brush the meat again with the mixture. Place it back on the oven and let it roast for 10-15 minutes longer. Serve.

Winter Warmer Meatloaf

Make a mixture of hamburger, ground turkey meat, ground chicken meat or a combination of these, into a bowl with your other ingredients (which may include tomatoes, oats, breadcrumbs, egg whites, spices). Add 2 drops of dill, fennel, mint and sage to the mixture. Form into a loaf. Bake. Serve.

Cordyceps Sinensis is a famous and costly traditional Chinese medicine. It is created when a type of fungus parasitizes the larvae of the Chongcao Bat Moth and forms a fungus/larva composite body. The larva forms a cocoon in the winter and hibernates in the ground. Because the fruiting body of the fungus emerges from the head of the larva in the summertime and resembles a grass sprout, this medicine?s Chinese name means roughly ?winter-insect, summer grass.?

Cordyceps Sinensis is found on high mountain peaks over 3, 800 meters above sea level. It is mainly produced in China?s provinces of Sichuan, Qing-hai, Xizang, and Yunnan.

Practitioners of Chinese traditional medicine believe that Cordyceps Sinensis, having a sweetish taste and a warm character, enters through the kidney and lung channels enhancing lung functioning, bolstering the kidneys? yang energy, increasing essence, relieving coughing, and lessening sputum. Chemical analysis has revealed that Cordyceps Sinensis contains protein, fats, vitamin B12, cordycepicacid, and ergosterol. Clinically it is used to treat the weakness of kidneys and lungs, poor vitality, impotence, spermatorrhea, asthma, aching back and knees, and general debility caused by long-term illness.

Cordyceps Sinensis can also be used as a treatment for coughing blood or bloody sputum that maybe caused by tuberculosis, coughing and difficult breathing, and cold or sudden sweating. Modern medical research has revealed that the codycepicacid in Cordyceps Sinensis can relax the bronchia and strengthen the adrenal glands. It is recorded in the Historical Annals of Szechuan that Cordyceps Sinensis is classified as a warm tonic agent, and is highly effective at replenishing the essence and strengthening the body.

In recent years, medical researchers have conducted many studies of Cordyceps Sinensis, and some new discoveries have further expanded its scope as a curative agent.
Everyone knows that kanamycin and gentamicin are commonly-used antibiotics that have a wide range of clinical application. However, their fatal weakness is that they have toxic side effects to the kidneys. In severe cases, acute kidney failure can lead to death. Therefore, these antibiotics are termed renal toxic antibiotics. Last year, the prominent kidney specialist, Professor Li Shuo-shin, discovered that Cordyceps Sinensis can prevent the kidney damage caused by antibiotics and other drugs without blocking their antibiotic effect. This result provides a new safeguard measure to accompany the use of renal toxic antibiotics.

Hepatitis B is a grave threat to human health. It is estimated that 10% of the population in China is infected with hepatitis B, which implies that over 100 million people are either suffering from hepatitis B or carry the hepatitis B virus. At present, Western and Chinese medicine offer several dozen methods of treating hepatitis B, but no one method is satisfactorily effective. Even very costly interferons can deliver effectiveness no greater than 25-50%, and do little to prevent recurrence. Under the guidance of professor Xiao Sudong, graduate student Wang Changcheng of the Shanghai Research Institute for Digestive Disorders performed research on hepatitis B viruses carrying surface molecules from peripheral blood lymphocytes, and the effect of Cordyceps Sinensis on hepatitis B viruses carrying surface molecules from peripheral blood lymphocytes, and the effect of lipopolysaccharides contained in Cordyceps Sinensis on the cellular immune function of patients with chronic hepatitis B. The results of this research proves that Cordyceps Sinensis is able to enhance the cellular immune function and that lipopolysaccharides contained in Cordyceps Sinensis are even more effective in this regard. Because these lipopolysaccharides are able to affect greater than 53.5% of the negative conversion of HBeAg, 68.4% of the short-term negative conversion of hepatic B DNA, they may be able to replace interferons as a hepatitis B treatment.

Research conducted in Beijing has shown that most cases of cirrhosis of the liver occur in persons who are suffering from chronic hepatitis B. Depending on the degree of advancement of the hepatitis B and the pathological changes that have occurred in the liver, cirrhosis may gradually appear in many cases.

Cordyceps Sinensisand other Chinese traditional herbs can effectively arrest liver cirrhosis and can even reverse the progression of early-stage cirrhosis.
Researcher Lin Ching-yuan of the Research Department of Veterans General Hospital in Taipei has announced that he has isolated an active component of Cordyceps Sinensis that can stop the progression of immunoglobulin nephritis. Immunoglobulin A nephritis in Asia, and currently lacks an effective means of treatment. 20% of those suffering from this condition die of kidney failure. Cordyceps Sinensis can stop this condition from worsening, and clinical trials have shown that it can also alleviate hematuria, albumimuria and edema.

Cordyceps Sinensis is a well known and important ingredient in Chinese Medicine and it is very widely used both in clinical medicine and as a household remedy. In the Compedium of Materia Medica, the great classic of Chinese medicine, Cordyceps is described in detail and is considered potent at strengthening lungs and kidneys, increasing energy and vitality, stopping hemorrhaging, decreasing phlegm, and as an overall tonic. After 20 years of study, the central pharmaceutical research unit of China has refined Cordyceps Sinensis Hyphas, the most effective component of Cordyceps Sinensis, using the most advanced scientific methods to provide the market with a homogenous, highly effective quality Chinese medicine that meets the requirements of modern pharmaceutical practice. Scientists have managed to remove the toxins of As and Pb which are normally found in the Cordyceps Sinensis herb. Over the course of ten years, Cordyceps Sinensis Hyphas has proved itself superior to the original Cordyceps Sinensis in tens of thousands of clinical tests carried out at several dozen central-grade schools in both Western and Chinese medical institutions.

Medical Properties: Regular, dry and warm

Physical Properties: Cordyceps Sinenesis Hyphas consists of a brown, high molecular weight powder with a mildly bitter flavor and a unique strong fragrance.

Storage: Store in a cool, dark place. Be careful as it can absorb moisture easily.

Cordyceps Sinensis is certified by modern medicine and is proven effective against asthma in both the young and the old, reversing the toxic effects of various chemicals to the kidneys, strengthening the body's immunity, and repressing the cancer cells. **These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.**

Astronomers have mapped dark matter for the first time on the largest scale ever observed.

Edinburgh astronomers studied the way light emitted from 10 million galaxies was bent as it passed massive clumps of dark matter on its journey to Earth.

They found web-like strands of dark matter stretching in all directions.

Dark matter is believed to make up 90% of the physical universe but cannot be detected directly.

Binds Galaxies

Scientists have no idea what it is made of, but know it exists because of its gravitational effect on galaxies.
Dark matter is believed to act as a "glue" that binds galaxies together. Without it, the universe would not exist in its present form.
Until now, most of what is known about dark matter has been based on computer simulations.

The new study, presented at the annual meeting of the American Astronomical Society in Austin, Texas, provides the first "real" glimpse of dark matter at cosmic scales.
Dr Catherine Heymans, from Edinburgh University, said: "By analysing light from the distant universe, we can learn about what it has travelled through on its journey to reach us.
"We hope that by mapping more dark matter than has been studied before, we are a step closer to understanding this material and its relationship with the galaxies in our Universe."

Light Years Away

Professor Ludovic Van Waerbeke, of the University of British Columbia in Canada, said: "It is fascinating to be able to 'see' the dark matter using space-time distortion.
"It gives us privileged access to this mysterious mass in the Universe which cannot be observed otherwise.
"Knowing how dark matter is distributed is the very first step towards understanding its nature and how it fits within our current knowledge of physics."
The international project involved studying images collected over a period of five years by the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHC) on Mauna Kea mountain in Hawaii.
Galaxies included in the survey were typically six billion light years away.
They emitted their light when the universe was six billion years old, roughly half the age it is today.

Costochondritis is an inflammation in the cartilages where the ribs join the breastbone. Since we have to take breaths in and out of our lungs, there cannot be a direct rigid attachment of the ribs to the
breastbone.

Instead, the ribs join the breastbone (known medically as the sternum) through flexible cartilages known as costal cartilages. But just like any cartilage, these costal cartilages in the chest wall can get inflamed. This is costochondritis, which literally means
inflammation of the cartilage.

The key symptom is pain-not in the center portion of the chest under the breastbone, which is more typical of heart related pain-but rather pain along the edges of the breastbone. Many patients, and even doctors, can occasionally be thrown off as the pain can radiate
into the arms, shoulders, or across the entire chest.

Another tip-off that this is cartilage inflammation rather than a more serious heart ailment is the fact that the pain increases with twisting movements of the upper body-reaching for something (especially overhead), taking in a very deep breath, coughing, or
sneezing.

The physical examination performed by a doctor shows tenderness over the anterior chest wall area along the breastbone where the rib joins the sternum. There may be some degree of redness over the skin and the pain is more often than not on the left side of the chest area.

The ailment usually disappears as mysteriously as it came on, but often a low dose of Naprosyn or another over-the-counter, anti-inflammatory will stop the pain, along with warm, moist heat. Rare cases, such as an infection into the cartilage, require more aggressive measures, but this is unusual.

Stress contributes to the pain because it makes the muscles tense. Other things which hurt are lifting, pushing, pulling, sneezing, coughing, long hours of driving or using the computer, repetitive motions and caffeine. Cold, rainy and humid weather also make a lot of sufferers feel worse.

Stress causes the nerves to be more stimulated and tightens the muscles, both of which trigger our pain. That pain increases quite a
bit in stressful situation versus non stress times. With stress our bodies go into their fight or flight reaction due to the sympathetic nervous system. Ideally these situations should be avoided but where it is not possible it is important that they be carried out with
care.

Therapies you should consider:
*Glucosamine/Chondroitin Complex (500 mg) 3 x a day (heals
cartilage) :avoid if allergic to seafood.
*Ginger Root (inflammation)
*Evening Primrose Oil (inflammation)
*Bromelain (Pineapple enzyme 500 mg) 3 x a day on empty stomach
(inflammation)
*Vitamin C with Bioflavanoids (1000 mg) 4 x a day (boosts immune
system) :lessen dosage if bowel movements are effected.
*Vitamin E (anti-oxidant, inflammation)
*Eating fatty fish, such as salmon or sardines for their Omega-3 oils
(inflammation)
*White Willow Bark (inflammation)
*Goldenseal (inflammation, cleansing, good for viral)
*Valerian Root (calming, helps sleep)
*Grape Seed Extract (antioxidant)
*St. John's Wort (300 mg) 3 x a day (good for nerve pain and depression)
*A good multivitamin 1 x a day
*B Complex 1 x a day
*Traumeel homeopathic cream applied to area as needed.
*Enteric coated aspirin (325 mg) four a day
*Hot mineral baths once or twice a day
*Take a warm shower twice a day
*Light stretches on the back/neck area after each shower; this keeps
body flexible.
*Massage every two weeks, concentrating on neck flanks and shoulder
area.
*Work out the neck/shoulder/back area with light weights on a weight machine, to strengthen.
*Acupuncture has shown very promising results for this condition.

I emphasize one point, however, about costochondritis. If you have any doubt whatsoever about your chest pain, and even if you feel it is simply a cartilage inflammation, get a confirmation from a doctor
or even a second opinion.

Theology states that God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh

The priesthood do not believe in the Law of Evolution, which states that man
evolved from the apes. This transvaluation instigated by Charles Darwin robbed
man of the privilege of having been specially created.

From a broader philosophical perspective, we can say that the Lord did not
create
the world. He became this world. He is all this. ” All this is Brahman alone,
all this magnificent Universe” averrs the Upanishads.

The sum total Energy in the Universe is an absolute constant and does not
change.

This is the Universal Being, which knoweth no destruction. ” Know that to be
imperishable by which all this is pervaded” says the Geetha.

Dr Erasmus Darwin drew inspiration from the Theory of Reincarnation and the
Theory
of the Ten Incarnations of Lord Vishnu. The first incarnation was that of a
fish,
indicating that life came from the sea and that our ancestors were aquatic. The
summum bonum is the Enlightened One, the Buddha. Finally Charles Darwin, his
grandson, established the Law of Evolution in his Origin of the Species.

While on the absolute plane there is no destruction, forms are changing on the
relative plane. Matter exists in three forms - solid, liquid and gaseous.
Nothing
ever begins to be. It only undergoes a transformation into conditions which
preexisted
in other conditions. Ice when heated becomes water, which when heated becomes
steam, which when cooled becomes water, which when cooled becomes ice again.
So on the relative plane, forms only undergo transformation.

The Theory of Reincarnation - Symblic of the Evolution of Consciousness

The Theory of Reincarnation states that the Soul takes successive births and
evolves to the Absolute, the Godhead, through the Evolution of Consciousness.
Life does not, at physical birth, begin to be. It merely enters physical
conditions
and assumes physical guise.

There are three types of men

The Animal Man - Here Consciousness is on the animal level. Hence we find
criminals
and crackpots in society.

The Human Man - Here Consciousness is on the human level. Man is all mixed, viz,
Virtue and Vice are mixed in him

The Divine Man - Here Consciousness is on the Divine level. He had achieved
union
with the Absolute Self.

The Evolution of Consiousness begins from Animal Man and ends in Divine Man.

The Theory of the Ten Incarnations is also symbolic. It depicts the journey of
the Soul from the unicellular amoeba to the Enlightened Man.

Be the Enlightened Man, the Divine Man, is the message of Transcendental Wisdom!

Article by G Kumar, numerologist, writer & programmer of www.eastrovedica.com.
He has 25 years psychic research experience in the esoteric arts. He gives free
tips at http://www.eastrovedica.net and stock market investment advice can be
got at http://www.stockmarketastrology.com

In the late 1970s, strange circles began to appear in fields throughout the English countryside. Isolated cases had been witnessed before, but this was becoming too common to ignore. Was this a freak of nature, or intelligent design? It was in 1981 that media interest catapulted the crop circle phenomenon into the mainstream. In a field at Cheesefoot Head in Hampshire, a 52-foot circle, flanked by two smaller circles exactly half its size was discovered. And the circles were aligned perfectly from north to south.

History

The crop circle phenomenon can be traced back as far as 1590, with a document referring to strange shapes appearing in wheat fields. The Mowing-Devil pamphlet of 1690 also referred to a farmer's field being inexplicably mowed in the night. When the crop circles of the 1980s became well known, some scientists said they must be the result of freak wind patterns. Others disagreed, saying the designs were far too perfect to be caused by accident.

By 1988, hundreds of crop circles were being recorded and they were becoming ever more complex. The meteorological theory was blown out of the water when in August 1989 the famous circle in Winterbourne Stoke, Wiltshire appeared. Inside a circle, the crop was bent in four directions in exact quadrants pointing to north, east, south, and west. It became known as the swastika. Was this more than just a hoax? For some, cerealogy the study of crop circles became more than just a hobby.

Then in 1990 the first pictogram appeared at Chilcomb Farm in Winchester, Hampshire. With two circles connected by a straight line and two rectangular boxes at either side, it was the first of many dumbbell designs to appear. Some people noticed a similarity with ancient symbols of the Sun God in cultures throughout the world, and their proximity to Earth's ley lines. In the same year, a massive 603-foot pictogram featuring a row of nine circles and key-like shapes suddenly appeared in Alton Barnes in Wiltshire. It was so dramatic and intriguing, it made the front pages of the world's press. Thousands of people from all over the world flocked to the site. Crop circle-mania had begun.

In July 1991, a formation appeared which took the phenomenon to a new level. The Barbury Castle tetrahedron in Wiltshire depicted an ancient symbol of the trinity, the symbol of creation. Local residents reported seeing mysterious lights in the area the night before. A nearby town also experienced a total power-cut. In the morning, the military had sealed off all access roads to the site for a military exercise.

Then, out of the blue, two pensioners named Doug Bowers and Dave Chorley announced to the press that they had been making the crop circles since 1978 using planks, rope, hats, and wire. Public and scientific interest in the phenomenon crumbled. Was the mystery solved?

Despite the hoaxers, the phenomenon continued throughout the 1990s. The designs became more complex, featuring insect-like forms, atomic structures, and fractal geometry. One of the most famous crop circles was discovered on Windmill Hill, Wiltshire. The Triple Julia Set of 1996 measured 900 by 500 feet, and consisted of 151 circles. Could a couple of men really create such precise logarithmic spirals in just a few hours in the dark, unnoticed? Even the hoaxers could not explain this one.

Strange Signs

Inside the crop circles, some people felt tickling sensations or nausea. Dogs would bark and not even enter. Electronic equipment would break down. And magnetic compasses would behave erratically. Researchers discovered higher levels of radiation inside the crop circles. The stems of crops were bent at unusual points, and often featured burnt holes, as if they had been heated up. Hoaxed crop circles, however, revealed broken stems, and normal radiation levels.

In 2001, two new crop formations were found near Chilbolton radio telescope in Hampshire. One looked like a human face and the other resembled a message sent by SETI (the Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence) from a radio telescope in 1974. The original message contained details about the human race - our DNA structure, decimal system, and our position in the solar system. The 2001 crop circle of binary code was almost identical. However, the details of DNA structure, the solar system, and other features were different. Was something trying to communicate with us?

Theories

Alien communication, man-made art, tornadoes, ball lightning, and microwave beams from satellites have all been considered as explanations. A famous, unproven theory, even cites vortical plasma energy as the culprit, working in harmony with underground springs, resulting in geometric representations of sound frequencies.

Sceptics dismiss crop circles as hoaxes, but despite years of research nobody can explain how some of them are made. People used to blame the devil; today, they blame aliens. Perhaps this leads to a widespread unwillingness to take the idea seriously. Even more fantastic crop circles are bound to emerge in the future. As long as the phenomenon continues, it will continue to satisfy our obsession with the unexplained. And there's nothing wrong with that.

Infused with energy, air, water, fire, earth....the gifts of the earth that have
been provided us, are some of the most healing and nurturing powers of all. Stones
and crystals have been apart of this earth since its creation and have played an
integral part in its connection between the alignment with the pulse of the
Earthbeat and the creatures that walk upon it.

Crystals are a very popular feng shui cure since their natural energies can be
used to gently protect, clear and nourish energies within our environment.

Crystals for feng shui purposes are based on their metaphysical properties,
mineral makeup, color and shape. The choice depends on which crystalline energy
you want to bring into your surrounding space.

The mineral makeup of a crystal is what gives it power. The combining and layering
of earth elements over centuries, makes it's energy, unique. From quartz to copper
and calcium to iron, the mineral spectrum is vast, creating an amazing synergy.

The color of a crystal allows us to connect with it on a deeper level. Color
enriches every aspect of our lives. The inspiring rainbow of colors can influence
the way we feel. The five elements in feng shui all have related colors that can
be utilized. Wood: brown, green. Water: blue, black. Earth: beige, brown, yellow.
Fire: red, orange. Metal: white, gray. When healing mental, emotional issues, the
color of a crystal can be an additional clue in choosing the right gem for the
job.

The shape of a crystal is relative to the way we respond to the environment around
us. We respond to shapes on a subconscious level, therefore, the shape of a
crystal can have an incredible impact. Found in natural clusters and geodes or
fashioned into points, towers or tumbled smooth stones, crystal shapes bring
continuity and flow to our lives. In nature, there are six crystal families in
three dimensions: triclinic, monoclinic, orthorhombic, tetragonal, hexagonal, and
cubic.

Crystal at the front door

If the back door is seen immediately from the front door, hang a crystal near the
front to slow down the energy from going directly through the home. If there are
steps down immediately upon entering a home, hang a crystal above the steps to
keep the energy moving up. I like using crystal prisms or Swarovski crystal here,
as the many facets divert light energy and play it around the space.

Crystals in the living/family room

A crystal cluster is wonderful in the living room or family room. Clusters of
crystals bring a "group" energy to it's surrounding area. They are used to foster
protection, cooperation, purification, harmony, friendship, intimacy and to break
up negative energy in the environment. Clusters help to keep all life forms
energized and clear of heavy or unproductive energy. Clusters in a family room
bring together the various family members in harmonious unity. Like a crystal
cluster, family members are all connected to a similar base. Some of my favorites
include quartz clusters, which help bring clarity of thought and clear intention,
citrine clusters, which help encourage communication and aqua aura clusters, which
have an energy that can enhance intuition and communication, calm nerves and
energize our mental abilities.

Crystals in your workspace

Black Tourmaline (Schorl) is one of my favorite for the workplace as it is the
best crystal to use against the ill effects of low frequency and high frequency
electromagnetic waves (EMF). It protects against smog, radiation and repels all
kinds of negative energy. Great near computers, phones and outlets.

Tourmaline in quartz provides an energy or "solving atmosphere". Used to actualize
an innate strength in the body. It helps eliminating "crystalized patterns" in the
body which have been destructive in a physical and mental manner, especially in
one's business.

Selenite wands and towers are white/clear striated gypsum crystal known to
stabilize and help with mental focus, growth, luck, immunity, and raising
kundalini energy. Centuries-old record keepers of events and information, these
stunning crystals help regulate and soothe emotions, especially good where
business is concerned.

Place a clear quartz crystal cluster near your computer to balance out the
energies and protect you from high electromagnetic fields (EMF).

Citrine is especially good for the workplace as it helps with problem solving,
memory issues, will power, optimism, confidence and self-discipline. It reduces
anxiety, fear and depression. Can guide you to harness and utilize your creative
energy. Helps us analyze events, develop inner calm and security and makes us less
sensitive and more open to constructive criticism. This stone is great with help
in achieving goals. Citrine is the stone of abundance. It teaches us the lessons
of achieving wealth and prosperity. Not just on a monetary level, but in all
aspects of our lives.

Crystals in your bathroom

Water is the dominant element in the bathroom, a very Yin energy. Leaky pipes,
open drains and toilet seats can cause Qi energy to move out too fast, taking a
wealth of energy with it. Fix leaking pipes and keep toilet seat and shower
curtains close. Use a faceted crystal or cluster to disperse an slow down the Qi.
Consider using more yang colored crystals such as black, red, orange or yellow
together in a bowl.

If you have bathroom door across from the bedroom door or kitchen door, hang a
faceted crystal ball in the middle between the two opposing doors.

Crystals in the bedroom

Crystals are wonderful to use in the bedroom. Two of my favorites include rose quartz and jade. Keep no more than two rose quartz in the relationship area of your bedroom or two stones close to your bed. Rose Quartz has a loving, healing energy associated with the heart. It brings about a strong sense and flow of love as its heart-opening properties encourage more self love and the love in an intimate relationship.

Depression is the most prevalent of all the emotional disorders. Symptoms may vary from feelings of minor sadness to sheer misery and dejection. When sadness persists and impairs daily life, it maybe an indication of a depressive disorder. Depression brings together a variety of physical and psychological symptoms, which together constitute a syndrome. Depression is considered "Anger turned inward". (See also: Anger). This is a situation that should be addressed. The external manifestations represent a cry for help from the tormented mind of the depressed persons. The severely depressed patient feels worthless and is finally convinced that he himself is responsible for his undoing and his present state of hopeless despair. Depleted functioning of the adrenal glands is one of the main causes of mental depression.

The Root Chakra represents physical identity, oriented to self-preservation. This chakra forms our foundation. It represents the element earth, and is therefore related to our survival instincts, and to our sense of grounding and connection to our bodies and the physical plane.

Also address the Heart Chakra when healing abandonment issues. This chakra is most important in all facets of love, when it is balanced; you trust in others, take risks, love and feel loved.

- Metaphysical expert Louise Hay sees depression as: Anger you feel you do not have a right to have. Hopelessness.

- Use this affirmation: I now go beyond other's fears and limitations. I CREATE MY LIFE!

Create a Crystal Net with clear quartz points. Use any energizing grid that encircles the body.
Ask the patient to choose from a pink or green stone. The crystal they choose, place at the Heart Chakra.

Consider the following stones by color:

Yellow - Associated with joy and happiness. It is a stimulant to the brain, the liver and the spleen. It is also effective in the treatment of indigestion, kidney and liver disorders, constipation, eye and throat infections, syphilis and impotence. In using yellow, it allows clarity of thought. It gives good ideas and awareness. It has a powerful effect on the nervous system and assists the left brain in operation.

Orange - Orange is the best stimulant, helping us in times of depression, loneliness, and boredom. It is the best emotional stimulant. Joy comes from orange energy. Orange has the love from red and the wisdom from yellow. It strengthens confidence and allows independence. In using orange, you can learn to understand how the stomach tells us about our physical situations.

Support this treatment by making a gem essence of any of the above stones.

Carry 4 of the above stones with you.

Make a grid for self-realization and self-expression. Use a place mat or grid mat. On a piece of paper, write a positive affirmation or realization of how you want to heal yourself. Be specific with the intention. Fold the paper and place it under a clear quartz stone in the middle. Around that stone place 5 or 7 stones that you (or patient) relate to. Trace the grid with a single terminated stone to transform the intention and then let it go.

This powerful crystal balances one's perspective in both creativity and practicality. It is used as a sign of devotion towards awareness and dispels negativity. It signifies both death and re-birth and helps one to understand the realization of immortality. It is used as a bridge for "crossing over". It helps one to assimilate during times of change. It provides insight to answers when problem solving. This stone has a reputation for astral journeys and is used as a gateway into the mysterious. This stone allows for the overcoming of fear, the facing of reality and overcoming of the unknown. It exhibits the axis and angle in a different color from the rest of the crystal forming a natural cross.

Medium brown, green, blue or red, these stones are accented with tiny coppery glitter. Goldstone is a man-made stone, a type of glass with glittery metallic material in it. It is a valid classification, as it has many properties of NATURAL glasses, such as obsidian which are modified by its being man-made and having been doped with additives.
Originally created when alchemists were working towards creating gold. Gently uplifting,
mildly helpful to Solar plexus Chakra to reduce stomach tension, protect center of body.

These clear crystals closely resemble diamonds, but are really quartz. Considered a "Dream stone", they are used in meditation or under your pillow to enhance visualization, astral travel into the light and dream recall. Most effective on the Brow and Crown Chakra therefore, this stone shifts the brain powerfully into alpha/deep stillness. Amplifies and stores thoughts, energy; and can be used as a bridge to stimulate energy flow up through the Chakra centers, opening the Brow and Crown Chakra for a strong, clear channel for psychic readings and meditation. This stone helps you choose a direction to follow that will offer the path of least resistance. They contain a store of ecological memory that can be utilized by a person who can tune into the energy. Can also guide you in remembering your own past-life experiences.

The ancient Chinese culture has revered Jade for centuries. Jade is considered the health, wealth and longevity stone. used also for courage, wisdom, justice, mercy, emotional balance, stamina, love, fidelity, humility, generosity, peace, harmony. Jade is known as androgynous, therefore it is considered having a gentle, steady pulse of healing energy. Jade is found in different colors and can be used on the appropriate Chakra based on its color. Properties common to all colors of Jade include its ability to mellow one's existence. Helps one rid themselves of negative thoughts and energy. Very beneficial to the heart in both physical and spiritual senses. It is a very protective stone and will keep its wearer out of harm's way. Jade bounds us to our earth energies and physical instincts. Jade is a humbling stone.

In tune with emotions, water and women, especially pregnant women, pearls are a symbol of pure heart and mind; innocence and faith. Because it is from the sea, it has watery and lunar elements, therefore it is used for balancing emotions, especially for water signs. Absorbing by nature, this mineral absorbs thoughts and emotions and because of this, must be used with caution. If you feel excessively negative while wearing a pearl, it will hold that energy until it is cleansed. Remember, Pearl is the result of layer upon layer of substance produced to combat irritation. Pearl can cool and soothe. It is very nurturing. If using pearls in conjunction with other gemstones, consider Diamonds to amplify and purify, or Emeralds to bring negative energy out and disperse it.

Quartz is the Master Healer and the "stone of power"! Probably the most versatile multipurpose healing stone. Easy to cleanse, store information/energy in, program or amplify energy and is used as a healing instrument. The natural tendency for quartz is for harmony. Quartz can both draw and send energy therefore it is effective for sending/receiving guidance. Quartz is used for transformation in healing and in all levels of change (mentally/emotionally, physically and spiritually). Quartz stimulates the natural crystal in body tissues and fluids to resonate at the highest healing frequency. Quartz works with All Chakra and master gland for balancing, cleansing and healing. It is the perfect stone for complete Aura balancing.

This mineral is a talisman of good luck! Historically, this stone is said to be formed from the tears of fairies when they were brought the news of the death of Christ. Formed in the shape of a cross (often, St. Andrew's Cross), this amazing stone is beautiful and powerful on your alter or meditation space, around your neck or in your pocket. Represents four elements and joining of spirit with earth/matter. Spirituality, compassion, allowing, dis-attachment. Focus centered on the here and now. This stone provides protection and grounding energy and therefore, is most often used at the Root Chakra.

We are always looking for experts to write informative, interesting articles on alternative health, healing, the metaphysical arts, massage therapy, color therapy, yoga therapy...
Articles can be on your:

*expertise in your field.
*your knowledge in regards to healing.
*your work with clients and their energies.
* your methods, techniques and "bedside manners" to enhance health.
* knowledge you have regarding your therapies.
....so many subjects, so many articles!!
Just email them to us directly:

My writing staff will go over them and we will post them both to the Alternative Answers community at YahooGroups.com and to our website at Peacefulmind.com under the appropriate therapies on our site!

You will be given full credit: Your name and business practice address and website address, and phone number (if you prefer).

We look forward to your "pearls of wisdom"!

*Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended as
diagnosis, treatment, or prescription of any kind. The decision to use, or not to use, any information is the sole responsibility of the reader.

What is your experience with alternative and complementary medicine? Sharing your own experiences often helps others. We'd love to know in the
Peacefulmind Community.